Graduation: Are you in or out?

As the 2022-23 school year is coming to an end, seniors are preparing for the opportunity to graduate in the new stadium.  

Graduation will be held outside in the new stadium on Wednesday, May 24, at 7 p.m.  

Aside from the “drive thru” graduation that was held in 2020, the last outdoor commencement was held in 2012, said Co-Principal Andrew Rantz.  

Prior to 2001, indoor graduations were held in the auditorium; from 2001 to 2012 they began being held in the gym, added Mr. Rantz.  

 The weather is the biggest factor in the plans, said High School Secretary Ms. Deana Kovilaritch. 

If the weather does not permit, graduation will be held in the high school gymnasium, added Ms. Kovilaritch. 

“A decision will be made 48 (hours) prior to graduation to determine if the weather is conducive to holding an outdoor graduation,” said Co-Principal Mr. Michael Bergey. 

Students will be limited to eight tickets per person whether the commencement is held indoors or outdoors, said Ms. Kovilaritch. The limit is to ensure that enough seats are available regardless of the location, explained Mr. Bergey.  

 “Caps and gowns will be distributed a day before graduation,” said Ms. Kovilaritch. The company requires the sizing and fitting to be sent in early February, she added.  

The commencement ceremony will include speeches from the Class of 2023 valedictorian and salutatorian. The valedictorian and salutatorian will not be determined until the week of graduation, said Ms. Kovilaritch.  

Senior Class President Nicholas Fleck and Superintendent Dr. John Bickhart will also be giving a speech at this year’s graduation, added Ms. Kovilaritch. 

“This will be the first graduation in years without COVID-19 having a severe impact on the school year,” said Nicholas.  

With this year’s graduation being scheduled in the new stadium, it may create a more positive environment as people look to the future rather than worry about the present, he added.