Brevard Public Schools to Hold High School Graduation Ceremonies in July, Pending COVID-19 Restrictions

By  //  May 29, 2020

over 5,000 seniors expected to graduate

Brevard Public Schools announced today that it plans to hold graduation ceremonies for its 16 high schools and some 5,000 seniors during the week of July 20, 2020, dependent on the status of COVID-19 restrictions.

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – Brevard Public Schools announced today that it plans to hold graduation ceremonies for its 16 high schools and some 5,000 seniors during the week of July 20, 2020, dependent on the status of COVID-19 restrictions.

Due to prevailing guidelines for social distancing and large group gatherings, BPS will not be able to host in-person graduation ceremonies during the previously reserved dates for June.

This decision comes as follow up to the district’s April 17 announcement of graduation back-up plans that included alternative dates in both June and July and were developed in consultation with high school principals and student government leaders; taking into account the collective wishes of the Class of 2020.

The selection of the July timeframe came after much deliberation by district leaders about the realities of holding traditional ceremonies in June given the restrictions outlined in the Governor’s re-opening plan, and in keeping the health and safety of BPS staff, students, and families at the forefront.

“We understand the decision to wait until July may mean that some of our seniors will not be able to participate for various reasons,” said Dr. Mark Mullins, Superintendent, Brevard Public Schools.

“Given where we are today, I believe delaying is the right thing to do. It is our hope that a graduation ceremony in July will provide a much-deserved celebration and reunion for the Class of 2020.”

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A complete list of July graduation dates by schools can be viewed by clicking HERE.

Seniors are considered graduates as of May 29th. Final transcripts will be ready on June 24th. Students who have unique situations and require them earlier can work with their schools directly to obtain them.

During an April video conference with the Superintendent, student government leaders discussed the pros and cons of delaying graduations until later in the summer, recognizing that some students would not be able to attend due to military deployments, freshman events and other commitments.

All agreed that it was important that seniors have a live graduation over a virtual ceremony, which students felt did not offer the same experience and satisfaction that comes from walking across the stage to receive their diploma.

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