Stoughton High Planning Drive-Up Graduation

STOUGHTON, MA — The coronavirus pandemic has halted proms, graduations and other end of the year activities for graduating seniors across the United States.

Some schools have turned to virtual graduation ceremonies, and while a portion of Stoughton High School's commencement will be virtual, school officials announced a drive-up plan to make sure seniors are still recognized in person.

Principal Juliette Miller sent a letter home to Stoughton High School seniors and their families outlining a two-part graduation ceremony. The ceremony is scheduled for June 4, the original commencement date.

"While we have reviewed many plans from around our area and even nationally, I am pleased with the SHS plan and appreciate all of the feedback we have received," Miller said. "I understand some have suggested waiting until July or August, however, I am confident our recently developed plan will be very positive and addresses some mitigating factors."

The first part of the ceremony will be virtual. It consists of the National Anthem, Pledge of Allegiance, awards and speeches, all of which will be pre-recorded. The recording will release at 10 a.m. June 4 and will be avail be for later viewing as well.

Part two will be in person and begin at 3 p.m. Graduating seniors will take part in a "drive-up style ceremony" at staggered times throughout the afternoon.

"In a careful way, graduating seniors will exit their vehicle and walk up to the bus entrance, where they will stand on a red carpet and then walk across a stage and retrieve his/her diploma from Ms. Miller and Dr. Marcus," Miller wrote in the letter. "The student, wearing the tassel on the right side of the cap, will then shift his/her tassel from right to left and will be declared a Stoughton High School Graduate. A photographer will be positioned directly across from the stage and will take lots of pictures."

Miller said she also hopes to have school faculty positioned along the graduation route to cheer on the students.