L.A. Unified schools eye modified in-person graduation ceremonies

Los Angeles Unified students in the class of 2021 got some welcome news recently: They may be able to cap off the end of their high school careers with an in-person graduation ceremony, something last year’s graduates missed out on due to the coronavirus pandemic.

While celebrations will still be modified from

years past because the pandemic isn’t over, school board President Kelly Gonez noted that conditions have improved enough that inperson celebrations are now possible. Last year, the district could only hold driveby celebrations and virtual events.

“Graduation is an important milestone in a student’s academic career, and it’s so exciting to be able to offer in-person ceremonies once again,” she said. “Though the events will look a little different than pre-pandemic, we are thrilled to have the opportunity to safely celebrate our amazing graduates.”

Schools are still ironing out details for when and how exactly they’ll recognize graduating seniors, as well as plans for “culmination ceremonies” for fifth and eighth graders who will be transitioning to middle or high school in the fall.

Plans will vary from campus to campus. Expect school leaders to share more details with their specific school communities in the coming weeks. In the meantime, the district provided some general information.

WHICH SCHOOLS WILL HOLD CEREMONIES AND WHERE?

According to a district spokeswoman, all high schools will have a graduation ceremony while elementary and middle schools will host culmination ceremonies for fifth and eighth graders who will be moving on to middle and high school, respectively, in the fall.

However, according to the district, “there is discretion as to the type of ceremony, i.e., in-person, virtual or (drive-thru) . Schools that are opting for an in-person

event are also encouraged to have a virtual option for students and families who are unable to attend in person.”

Superintendent Austin Beutner had indicated last week that schools may hold ceremonies on their outdoor field or, if there’s not one on their campus, may look into using another school’s field or stadium or a community facility.

WHAT SAFETY MEASURES WILL BE TAKEN?

All students and guests participating in or attending an in-person ceremony must wear a mask and practice social distancing, although people from the same household can sit together.

Students participating in the ceremonies must

test negative for the coronavirus within seven days of the event and should obtain a daily pass beforehand by logging onto the district’s web-based app and going through the electronic health screening system.

Guests will be screened for COVID-19 symptoms at the event.

As for whether there will be a limit on the number of guests each student may invite, that will be at the discretion of school leaders.

Schools may also decide to hold several ceremonies “to maximize family participation,” according to the district. Only guests who sign up in advance will be allowed to attend.

As a safety precaution, concession stands won’t be open this year.

WHAT WILL THE CEREMONIES LOOK LIKE?

Graduates will remain 6 feet apart in a single line as they enter and exit the ceremony space and will likely sit on the field 6 feet apart.

They may be invited to walk across the stage one at a time and turn their tassel instead of receiving a diploma. Alternatively, students might pick up their diplomas and awards from a table as they walk by to limit contact. Others might pick up their diplomas the next day. Again, each school will decide how they would like to distribute the diplomas and awards.

After the ceremony ends, students and guests will be asked to continue their celebrations off campus rather than linger onsite.