Traditional graduation ceremonies to be replaced by alternative celebrations

State Superintendent Christina Kishimoto confirmed today that traditional high school graduation and commencement ceremonies won’t take place this year amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Lacking clarity about the impact of COVID-19 on continued closures and in conversation with state leaders, Kishimoto said high schools instead will have alternative celebrations in the latter part of May, when graduations are traditionally held.

The alternative celebrations could include e-conferencing or possibly, for smaller high schools, drive-through celebrations.

Each high school will decide how to celebrate and principals will issue the date of their celebrations next week, Kishimoto said.