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Tentative plans made for graduation

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By Kathy Thomson

School board members, administrators, teachers, seniors dressed in caps and gowns, numerous family members, friends, and special speakers, all packed into the gym or auditorium, celebrating the occasion together – those are things that Albany High School graduates from years past may recall. 

Undoubtedly most everyone, especially this year’s graduates, were anticipating something similar until COVID-19 swept around the world, changing everything. 

The AHS seniors’ last day of “class” is tomorrow, and the original graduation date is barely two weeks away. Because of social distancing rules that seem to change day to day, tentative plans are now being made for an in-person ceremony at Nail Stadium.  

“All of our plans are contingent upon what the Commissioner of Education says today during his 4:30 p.m. Zoom conference,” said AISD superintendent Jonathan Scott on Tuesday afternoon.  

As of press time on Tuesday, graduation is set to take place one day later than originally scheduled to better accommodate the shift to an outdoor venue.

“We are still working through the fine details of our plan, but if allowed, we plan to have graduation at the football field on Saturday, May 23 at 10:00 a.m.,” said Scott. “We anticipate limiting each senior to six guests, and we will practice social distancing by seating guests in the stands at least six feet apart.” 

Scholarship awards will be given out as usual during graduation. 

The traditional senior Bible presentation, normally hosted by First Baptist Church, will be combined with Baccalaureate. The dual event is planned for 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 17 at the football field. 

“Events such as prom and the Six Flags trip have been cancelled,” Scott said. “Finals will only be given in dual credit courses; all other finals have been cancelled.”

The fate of parent-sponsored events, including Project Graduation, the progressive dinner, and opening of time capsules, were still undetermined at press time.

Secondary principal Edward Morales said that seniors should clean out their lockers, return all school items, and pick up caps and gowns on Thursday, May 14.

Graduation rehearsal will be at Robert Nail Memorial Stadium at 8:00 p.m. on Friday, May 22.