The past month and half has been anything but normal for students at Scotland County R-I High School. While the Coronavirus has made their final year of high school memorable, members of the 2020 graduating class will still get a chance to go out with a bang.
Several bangs as a matter of fact, as a unique graduation celebration for the class will be punctuated with fireworks.
The pyrotechnics will be possible because for the first time, Scotland County will be moving the festivities outdoors. The Scotland County R-1 High School Graduation will take place on Sunday, May 17, 2020 at 7:30 p.m. at the football field.
“We have been working diligently with local health officials as well as the Scotland County Health Department to formulate a plan for commencement,” said Superintendent Ryan Bergeson. “Local health officials are in support of this plan as long as we strictly follow social distancing guidelines.”
Due to the COVID-19 precautions, the event will take place outside on the football field.
Each graduate will only be allowed to have six total family members and/or guests attend the commencement. Gates will open at 6:30 p.m.
Each family/guest grouping of six will be spaced six feet or more apart in the football bleachers. There will be assigned seating in the football bleachers for each family/guest grouping. Seating locations will be determined during graduation rehearsal by administration and students.
Due to the Coronavirus health guidelines, the SCR-I Commencement will not be open to the public. However, the district will be broadcasting via Facebook Live on the Scotland County R-1 Facebook Page.
Commencement will conclude with a fireworks display sponsored by the Memphis Funeral Home.
In case of inclement weather, the celebration will be postponed until Monday, May 18 at 7:30 p.m.
A graduation rehearsal will take place on Friday, May 15, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.
Class sponsor Terri Slaughter will meet with seniors in advance of this date to discuss additional details via Zoom Video Conferencing.
“We have gone over multiple scenarios and we feel this is the best plan moving forward,” said Bergeson. “This plan will allow us to recognize our seniors while following the strict guidelines on social distancing. We sincerely appreciate your flexibility as we navigate these unique circumstances.”
