The 2019-20 school year has been filled with missed events and opportunities, but the Lamar County School Board voted Wednesday, April 22 to give seniors an alternate graduation that they can keep with them.
In a letter to parents and guardians of Lamar County seniors, Superintendent Tess Smith said a videographer will record seniors at each of the four high schools, providing videos for each high school. Smith said each year’s seniors are special.
“We are allowed to enjoy numerous ‘last’ moments with them,” she said. “The first last day of school, the last pep-rally, etc. Sadly, a number of their last moments were cut short.”
With the school year shortened by the coronavirus pandemic, the seniors’ memories were spoiled. Smith said she wants graduation to be different.
“High school graduation is one of those pivotal moments for our students,” she said. “They watch others participate for years in advance of their turn. They know what graduation should look like and sound like. Unfortunately, this year it will look and sound a little different. It will be as similar as we can make it given our current circumstances. It will be very memorable, and they will graduate. They will hear their name called, walk across a stage and have a video record of it all.”
The graduation “ceremony” will take place at each high school. Graduates will arrive with four guests on set dates at set times in order to participate in a segmented graduation ceremony. Forehead temperature scans will take place at the entrance. If guests arrive after the graduate enters the building, they will not be allowed inside.
The final video will include all graduates who choose to participate. Students will only be allowed to participate in the ceremony if they have met all requirements for graduation and are dressed in the approved cap and gown. Participation is not required.
Smith said caps, gowns and accessories will be distributed by each high school during the week of May 11. The segmented ceremonies will take place the week of May 18. Exact times and more details will be sent by each high school principal on Tuesday, May 5.
“Please know that we wish the very best for you and your graduate,” Smith said in the letter. “We are thankful that we will be able to honor them in a very special way. Again, further details will come from your respective school and principal.”