“I wish it could have been like an actual graduation,” said Michael Akers, the first senior in line to walk across the stage. “But I think with what they got to work with it’s not a bad option.”
RELATED: Coronavirus: Northwestern changes graduation plans, keeps same date
Each senior and their guests entered the field through the athletic complex gates until each of 40 areas separated by hurdles on the track were full.
PHOTOS: Northwestern Graduation 2020
“It was the best way where we could get them the most people per family to watch and also allow students to see their friends alphabetically close to them graduate as well,” said Meredith Grieser, Jr./Sr. High School teacher. “Obviously it’s not ideal because they would much rather have the traditional graduation, but they felt that this was the fairest way to still be able to graduate and see some of their classmates as well.”
United Senior Services start new grocery delivery service
As one student crossed the stage, each family moved forward a hurdle for the next student to walk across the stage, receive their diploma and get their picture taken.
“We’re excited that we could get as close to a normal graduation as possible. It’s still not one where the kids are in seats and then everybody’s in the stands watching, but under the circumstances, I think this is the best option and just happy we could do this for our students,” said Superintendent Jesse Steiner.
About the Author