Dear Students, Parents, Guardians, and Friends of the Class of 2020,
Click here to view a video message from Superintendent David C. Bills.
Thank you for your patience during a difficult time and with a topic that is near and dear to all of our hearts. This letter comes from us as parents and educators. Over the last several weeks, we have shared your anxiety about the topic of graduation. We keep as paramount our desire to honor the Class of 2020 in a way that befits their accomplishments. Therefore, we would like to communicate the most recent information regarding graduation.
This week, guidelines from the Onondaga County Health Department were made available to schools regarding ceremonies indicating that our submitted plan for a large group gathering will not be possible. The released document includes a great deal of specificity and outlines how schools are to proceed with regard to graduation ceremonies. The county’s document states a preference for strictly virtual ceremonies (videos, social media, etc.). Additionally, it includes a minimal number of restrictive “allowable in-person graduation” options. Of the options available, the drive-through option allows for the most personable celebration and an opportunity to return to campus. It is important to note that the guidance allows for drive-throughs with the following conditions:
- Only staff and one student at a time can be outside of the car.
- Only students and immediate family members will be allowed.
- Anyone outside of the car must wear a mask or face covering.
- No restroom access or refreshments will be available to avoid congregation.
Similar to surrounding districts, we have decided to create a plan that will maximize the experience while still adhering to the parameters provided by the Onondaga County Health Department.
We are anxious and excited to bring the Class of 2020 back together, albeit under unusual circumstances. We have heard from many of you and know that notice is needed for solidifying family plans. We discussed the idea of postponing the ceremony, but according to the guidelines “it is not known when large-scale, in-person events will be able to be safely held.” Therefore, we have chosen to keep our original graduation date, Saturday, June 20, 2020 rain date of Sunday, June 21, 2020.
***In addition, we hope to bring the Class of 2020 together for a group gathering in July, if possible.***
We will soon communicate logistics, essential guidelines, and expectations that correspond with the event. Please know that we are working on ways of incorporating as many WG traditions as possible to make this event special for our seniors. We are confident that our school community will work together to safely celebrate our Class of 2020! We now know more than ever that we are Stronger Together.
Sincerely,
David C. Bills, Superintendent of Schools
Wayne Ackles, Executive Principal
Tracy Klefbeck, Senior Principal
Rebecca DeCesare, Senior Class Advisor
Click here to read this letter from the website.
Click on the arrow below or here to view a video message from Superintendent David C. Bills.