We’re just under two weeks from the GHS Class of 2020 Graduation on June 20. Here’s an update regarding the ceremony and logistics of how it will proceed. Please note, that as has been the case since mid-March, some of the plans mentioned below are subject to change based on factors including: local impact of the COVID-19 virus, recommendations for the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and South Dakota Department of Health (SDDOH) and local weather conditions the day of graduation.
First, we want to extend our sincere “Thank You” to the following businesses (Alliance Communications, First Bank and Trust, Nordstrom’s Automotive, Inc.) for their donations and support of GHS Class of 2020 allowing us to bring in Sideline Production for our graduation ceremony. Also, to Duke Rentals (Brandon) for their equipment donation to support the video screen. We wouldn’t be able to make this happen without all of them. Please take a moment to thank them personally when you can.
WHO CAN COME?: At this time there are no restrictions regarding who can attend the 2020 GHS graduation ceremony. There will be reserved seating for immediate family and COVID-19 guidelines for those in attendance will be required. That information is listed below.
LOCATION: Garretson Athletic Complex – South Practice Field. This area allows us a large space for graduation and the ability to social distance and for Sideline Productions to bring in their equipment more efficiently. The production company is providing us a large mobile stage, concert quality sound system and 12x20 high definition display board. We’re excited to work with them to provide the GHS Class of 2020 the best graduation experience possible.
GHS GRADUATION TIME: 1:00PM Please note the time is subject to change dependent on weather forecast.
Doors will open at 12pm for all seating.
SEATING: No seating will be provided except for the graduates. Please bring your own lawn chair for seating. There will be RESERVED SEATING AREA for immediate family directly behind the graduates. RESERVED SEATING for Immediate family will be on a first come basis.
Immediate Family = Parent/Step Parent; siblings, sibling spouse and their children
GRADUATION CEREMONY: Will be very similar to those in the past. We will have farewell from Valedictorian and Salutatorian, graduation address, senior video, awarding of diplomas on the stage, etc.
Please remember, we are doing our absolute best to provide everyone associated with the GHS Class of 2020 a memorable event. Thanks for your understanding.
RECESSIONAL: Graduates will recess from the ceremony the same way they entered, they will proceed directly to their cars and leave the complex. Those in attendance will leave after the recessional is complete.
OTHER ITEMS:
- Graduate Totes: Will be placed at the City of Garretson softball field area so those unable to attend graduation gatherings will be able to drop off gifts as in the past.
COVID-19 PRECAUTIONS: At this time, here are the steps we will take in regards to COVID-19.
- Social distancing must be maintained by all groups that are not immediate family units or living in the same household. This is a minimum of 6ft. between individuals.
- No fraternization or mingling will be allowed prior to, during or after the graduation.
- Use of masks will be encouraged for those in attendance.
- REMINDER: There are NO RESTRICTIONS on attendance.
- Those that are in the high-risk categories (65+ or pre-existing condition) are encouraged to exercise their best judgement in regards to attending the graduation.
- Anyone with fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, body aches or generally feeling unwell are discouraged from attending.
REMINDER: These precautions are subject to change.
Thank you for taking the time to familiarize yourself with these details. With your help, we can make the 2020 GHS graduation an event to remember and celebrate. If you have any questions, please contact me at the school (605-594-3451, Ext. 302). We look forward to seeing you on June 20th. Congratulations GHS Class of 2020 – See you all soon!
- Chris Long – GHS Principal
