After working out details to host senior graduation in the parking lot at the middle-high school, everything changed after the state determined drive-thru ceremonies do not comply with the Governor's current Safer-at-Home order.
Northland Pines graduation had been planned for Sunday May 31 at 1:00 pm and that date and time remain. But the school policy committee was informed by district administrator Scott Foster they can't have the “gathering” planned where seniors drive up to receive their diplomas. “The drive-thru ceremony according to the Dept. of Public Instruction does not comply with the Governor's order,” Foster said. “Even a drive-thru parade through town is out. We will have to celebrate virtually and plan a social gathering in the future, if possible.”
While the Governor's order officially expires on May 26 it can be extended and a current court case challenging the order may impact our decisions, according to Foster. “While we could carry out what we planned, if there are persons who come down with the virus we could end up with lawsuits,” Foster said. “This sucks for everybody,” committee member Jeff Schenk said. “We choose a date and I'm in favor of a virtual ceremony.”
Foster agreed the district needed to celebrate this milestone in the lives of graduating seniors so “let's make the most of it.” It's unknown if things could again change but Foster and staff will plan a virtual graduation. Foster said “we walked on thin ice and the ice broke but we can have a virtual ceremony because we can as proven by the virtual awards ceremony.”
One item that still needs to be decided is how to get seniors their diplomas since it's recommended they not come to the school to get them.
Free meals will continue to the end of the school year June 30.
