The newly renovated football stadium was the motivation to hold the 2023 commencement ceremony outdoors. But after the windy day, administration have decided that the Class of 2024’s commencement will be held inside the high school’s gymnasium on May 30.
Superintendent Dr. John Bickhart explained that he observed both an indoor and an outdoor graduation at Milton. When planning an outdoor graduation, Co-Principal Mr. Michael Bergey, Co-Principal Mr. Andrew Rantz and Secretary Mrs. Deana Kovilaritch must plan and set up two venues as well as plan a rain date, Dr. Bickhart explained.
According to Dr. Bickhart, when he was making the decision about where to hold the 2024 graduation, he gathered input from both of the principals, Dean of Students Mr. William Campbell and senior class officers, as well as the secretaries.
“Overall, though, I ultimately have the final say on it,” he added.
Dr. Bickhart explained that the choice to hold commencement indoors was made early to avoid the weather having any effect on the day, like last year’s windy event.
“Not many people may know this, but Mr. Bergey and myself were holding the trees so they didn’t blow off the stage,” he added.
He added that while the graduation will be indoors this year, he plans to unlock the stadium gates after the program so that graduates can take pictures with family and friends.
For future graduations, Dr. Bickhart said that the circumstances will be considered when deciding on the location. “Let’s see how this year goes,” he said.
During the preparation for graduation Mr. Campbell described his role as a “floater.” He said he helps to set up the venue, organizes logistics and works with the police to help with the safety of the event. “I’m just making sure everything goes picture perfect for us,” said Mr. Campbell.
Mr. Campbell explained the pros of holding graduations indoors: the tech involved is easier to use, there are no clothing issues because of wind, there is only one venue to set up for, and it is a controlled environment.
He added the drawbacks are that indoor graduations are louder and do not show off the new stadium, while outside is more spread out, making the atmosphere completely different.
