Statement on 2020 Graduation from Superintendent Curtis Griffin

It is not a secret that our current state of remote learning while in quarantine has been challenging and stressful for our students, families, teachers and staff. We also understand that the impact of school closures has been very upsetting for our high school seniors and their families.

There has been much dialogue today about the Class of 2020 graduation and whether or not this milestone event will occur. First, allow me to confirm that no final decision has been made about the suspension of commencement or when that ceremony will occur. The idea of holding a large gathering has, at present, been removed from our hands as a result of the state’s mandate regarding social distancing. In a perfect world, this mandate will be lifted and we will all celebrate together at a traditional graduation ceremony.

In the meantime, and because it takes five weeks to prepare a state-of-the-art virtual graduation, the District is laying the groundwork for such a ceremony, if needed, which will be recorded and provided to each of our graduating seniors. We are taking these steps not because going this route is our desire, but because we need to prepare in the event that this is our only available option.

Ideally, it will be the first phase of a two-phase celebration. However, we have no ability to predict what the future months ahead for any of us. What we do know is this: We admire and respect the Class of 2020 and will do everything we can do within the parameters of what is lawful and safe to celebrate each and every member of the graduating class. I give you my word on that.