Navasota ISD finally has graduation plans for the 2020 seniors finalized.
According to a press release from the district on Tuesday night, the district is implementing a bit of a different approach, with multiple ceremonies. Principal Kristi Ramsey, speaking at last week’s school board meeting about the topic, says they will be having four ceremonies spread across 3 days, beginning July 23rd.
“Ms. Garcia met with our valedictorian, salutatorian, our top 5 kiddos. They all made a video of their speeches, the pledges, and all that. So, we would have those recorded to play on the big, new screen at all four of the ceremonies,” said Ramsey.
Each graduation ceremony would have about 44 kids, according to Ramsey, and the number of guests will be limited to about 10 per graduate.
The ceremonies are scheduled for 8 pm on July 23rd, 8 pm on July 24th, 10 am on July 25th, and 8 pm on July 25th. Students may sign up for which ceremony they want by May 31st, and will be assigned to a ceremony if they do not sign up. Ramsey did say participation is voluntary.
The coronavirus pandemic has, of course, led to the big changes, which includes the administrators not being allowed to hand out the diplomas without wearing gloves. There will also be some requirements of the guests who attend, including some forms to fill out.
“Prior to coming to the ceremony, all students and guests will receive a health questionnaire, and be asked to complete it, with questions about these different symptoms. Then, these would have to be collected as they are turning in their tickets,” said Ramsey. “And, if they exhibit any of those signs or symptoms, they would be excluded from the activity.”
The guidelines for graduation come from the Texas Education Agency, and are not determined by Navasota ISD.
There is also scheduled a special ceremony for this coming Tuesday, June 2nd at 8 pm, for around 5 students who have enlisted in the military, and are shipping out in early June.
You can read the full list of guidelines for graduation here.
Any questions can be directed to the district at 936-825-4200.