Dear Students, Parents, Guardians, and Friends of the Class of 2020,
In his daily press conference, Governor Andrew Cuomo made an unexpected announcement. He indicated permission for graduations to have a maximum of 150 persons with continuing social distancing measures. We immediately met with the senior class officers to discuss the governor’s latest updated guidance about graduation. Our conversation focused on whether we gained any additional leeway as a result of his announcement. The consensus was that it would still be difficult to create a larger, more inclusive plan for our 414 seniors under these new guidelines and the future remains uncertain. Our priority has been to present students with their diplomas while their family is present. Therefore, our original June 20 (rain date June 21) drive-through stage walk will continue as planned. We know that families are gathering based upon our recent commitment to this date.
However, together with the students, we have decided to adjust our planning for the student event on July 24 (rain date July 25) with the potential of guidelines that increase large group gatherings. The July 24 event, if health guidelines allow, will now include both formal and informal components and greater potential for them to be together. The first half of the event will be the students, together, in their caps and gowns for the NYS proclamation of completion. The students will then do the customary move of their tassels. They will then get to do their traditional cap throw as a class. Our students shared how this formal piece to the day on July 24 will allow for important traditions. The second half of the day will allow students to informally gather with their friends to further celebrate. Again, all of this will be within the parameters of the NYS Department of Health for a safe event.
We appreciate your patience as we have continued to plan during the ever-changing landscape. As we get closer to July 24, we will plan with student leaders and provide additional details.
Sincerely,
David C. Bills, Superintendent of Schools
Wayne Ackles, Executive Principal
Tracy Klefbeck, Senior Principal
Rebecca DeCesare, Senior Class Advisor
Click here to access the information sent yesterday, June 6, 2020.