The School District of Palm Beach County is planning to host virtual graduation ceremonies for high school seniors. The announcement was made Wednesday, April 15 via a letter from Superintendent Dr. Donald Fennoy to the Class of 2020. It follows a letter last week that canceled the in-person graduation ceremonies slated for the next month at the South Florida Fairgrounds.
The following letter was sent by Fennoy to students and parents of the Class of 2020:
To the Distinguished Class of 2020:
I hope you are settling into your Google Classrooms and getting the most out of distance learning during this last stretch of your K-12 career.
As I promised you in my letter on April 7, the district has been exploring other commencement celebration options following the cancellation of graduation ceremonies at the South Florida Fairgrounds.
Many of you have called and e-mailed. I thank you for your input and ideas, which were certainly taken into consideration.
I agree with the most prevalent collective opinion that a traditional graduation ceremony is the preferred way to honor your academic achievements. However, state and local guidelines regarding social distancing prevent the district from allowing mass gatherings at this time.
As you are aware, neither state nor federal officials are able to provide a clear timeline for when large gatherings will again be safe. However, please know that the district is monitoring the situation closely, hoping that there may be a possibility that schools can coordinate recognition events in late summer.
In the meantime, I want you to be recognized in a way that I know is 100 percent possible now.
The district will hold virtual graduation ceremonies, beginning in late May, which will follow the format of traditional graduations. Your name will be called, and your picture will be displayed to mark this milestone in your academic career. You’ll hear from speakers, including your principal and your classmates. I would be honored to help you mark this important occasion by saying a few words about your achievements and resilience, not only during this unprecedented time, but throughout your academic career.
Your virtual graduation will air on Comcast 234, AT&T U-verse 99 and will be streamed on the district’s web site at www.palmbeachschools.org. Perhaps you can host a virtual watch party where you invite friends and family to enjoy the celebration with you. The schedule of virtual graduations will be shared with you when it is finalized.
As I mentioned previously, your hard-earned high school diploma is a testament to your great success and determination.
On behalf of the entire School District of Palm Beach County, please accept our sincere appreciation of your understanding during this time of uncertainty.
Respectfully,
Donald E. Fennoy II, Ed.D.
Superintendent, School District of Palm Beach County
