Jonathan Alder High School will host a virtual graduation ceremony and drive-through diploma pick-up to honor the Class of 2020.
Officials had delayed graduation and end-of-the-school-year discussions in hopes to have a more traditional graduation celebration. Last week, Gov. Mike DeWine and the Ohio Department of Education released state guidance for graduations which allows for virtual ceremonies and drive-through diploma pick-ups.
“The Madison County Health Department has made it clear that we absolutely must adhere to these guidelines,” according to information from the district.
Officials decided to cancel the traditional ceremony and began planning the virtual ceremony and the drive through diploma pick-up, “after careful consideration of these directives and gathering input from a variety of stakeholders.”
“Although not having a traditional commencement ceremony is disappointing and saddens us all, the district and community are committed to making this graduation season as special as we possibly can,” according to a letter sent to senior students.
Seniors will sign up for a day and time next week. At their appointment, they will come to the high school with their cap and gown as well as a face covering. At the school, each senior will record a brief message which will include plans for after school as well as a favorite memory, a thank you, advice to underclassman or something they will miss about school.
After they have recorded their message, students will be able to sign a mural wall, return anything that belongs to the district and pick-up any of their belongings, as well as finalize any work.
“Social distancing will be enforced,” according to information from the district.
A “Senior Caravan” will be held at 4 p.m., May 23. The caravan will begin at Pastime Park and the route will be determined by the police department. Graduates are encouraged to decorate their vehicles.
The district’s drive-through diploma pick-up is scheduled for May 24, which was the day of the originally scheduled graduation ceremony.
Graduates will receive a time to arrive at the high school stadium. Graduates will be announced as they walk across the stage, set up at the south end of the track. The graduates will also be honored on the stadium scoreboard. Family members will drive through the south end of the stadium to view their graduate’s senior opportunity. Graduates will be limited to one vehicle. Only the graduate will be allowed out of the vehicle.
Graduates will not need to wear a mask as they cross the stage or pose for photos. A professional photographer will be available at the event.
Seniors will be receiving more details that are specific to them in an email.
A video of the graduations as well as the recorded messages and senior awards will be posted May 24.
Officials have said the dates and events are “subject to change based on direction from our county and state officials.”
Underclassmen Awards will be communicated and sent home to students during pick up and drop off time.