Principal discusses graduation

Whitehall High School Principal Melissa Robbins connected with senior classes officers last week to discuss graduation for the class of 2020.

Robbins said because timelines and opportunity to make a virtual production is limited, they have agreed to move forward to ensure something formal is completed and available to everyone pending the health situation at the end of May.

"We have the opportunity to do something that does not impose any health risks to our community or graduates by a professional producer. We have learned that the virtual ceremony components could be shared by Vimeo and/or streamed on the naturally set date of graduation. We can include the valedictorian and salutatorian speeches, each student's names being announced, senior slide show, and scholarship announcements," Robbins said in an email to seniors and parents. "This will be produced in a way that doesn't limit anyone from seeing graduates, hearing speeches, seeing photos and celebrating and it can be done without any social interaction. I will be sending out emails shortly in relation to gathering additional photos, such as one with your senior in their cap and gown."

Robbins also discussed how the community could be reached by PBS channel 49.

According to channel officials, when they televise something it is also automatically streamed on the Internet for viewing anywhere by friends and relatives out of the area.

During the month of May, Robbins will post a few featured seniors every day, which will include a short detail of their plans and photo.

"For now, these are the plans that ensure community, senior and family safety following social restrictions. There is no way to replace the 'normal' so please be open-minded and think positive. If more ideas come into me that can be implemented, I will touch base with the senior officers as soon as possible," she said.

As far as a parade outside of school, Robbins feels this is a fun idea, but there is no foreseeable way for the school to manage the social gathering that will occur or ensure the safety and health of community members.

"I do believe there is enough interest in this that parents will be reaching out to make it happen with community/town officials," she said.

Robbins added a parent suggested senior banners hung around town, and she thinks that is an excellent idea if it can be accomplished within the parameters of social distancing

She said postponing was a suggestion, however, the unknown extent and timeline of social restrictions leave graduates potentially having no ceremony.