New Brunswick’s education department has given the green light for in-person graduation ceremonies.
But the province says each school must follow a set of guidelines to keep everyone who is attending safe.
“While the pandemic prevents students from participating in many traditions and activities, the graduation guidelines will help districts plan alternative celebrations and ensure our grads receive the recognition they deserve for their accomplishments,” said Education Minister Dominic Cardy in a release.
Anglophone East School District Superintendent Gregg Ingersoll says schools are being asked to submit their ideas for approval.
“We are going to collect all of the schools graduation plans. Mainly to ensure they are respecting the health guidelines. We don’t want to do anything that is going to cause concern for people or put anyone at risk,” Ingersoll says.
He adds there are a lot of logistics to consider, with the many suggestions that have already been made, “Having the graduates come to a certain place, and maybe come in with a couple of other people, maybe their parents. They would somehow receive their diploma, while maintaining social distancing right from the time they park their car, to the time that they get in. We have to consider how do they get back out without crossing paths. We’ve also talked about doing it outdoors, and using their vehicles to help with physical distancing. ”
“I encourage schools to be creative in their planning and look at this as an opportunity to try new ways of celebrating,” said Cardy.
Ceremonies must take place in June.
