McHenry Times

Marengo Community High School District 154 issued the following announcement on July 13.

To the Class of 2020 and Parent(s)/Guardian(s): 

It is with a heavy heart that we make the incredibly difficult decision to officially cancel the in-person graduation ceremony scheduled for Sunday, July 26th.  In reviewing all of the restrictions and guidelines in the State of Illinois Phase 4 documentation, it is not feasible to carry out a ceremony with the social distancing guidelines and the restriction of a maximum of 50 people or less for gatherings such as this.  While there was high hopes of reaching the next phase in the state, which would have allowed for far less restrictions, the reality is we will not meet those goals in time for our ceremony.  

 

We have spent much time brainstorming alternative options that would allow for a meaningful celebration of your efforts and achievements over the last four years, while keeping in mind the safety of all involved.  In lieu of an in-person graduation ceremony there will be the release of the virtual commencement presentation as well as a drive-by diploma pick-up on Sunday, July 26th at the Circle Drive between 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm.  Graduates with the last name A - L should arrive at 2:00 pm and graduates with the last name M - Z should arrive at 3:00 pm.  This is a rain or shine event.    

 

Participants must abide by the following guidelines:

 

One vehicle per graduate is allowed, and all participants must remain in the vehicle at all times ;

Vehicles must be enclosed.  Attendees will not be permitted to ride on top of cars, in the back of pick-up trucks, or on trailers;

Graduates are encouraged to decorate their vehicle in celebration of this exciting day, however, please ensure all decor is  school-appropriate;

The building will remain closed for this event and public restrooms will not be available at the building or at concessions;

Graduating seniors are encouraged to wear their caps/tassels, with gowns being optional

 

Due to the overall concern for everyone’s safety and not wanting to encourage large crowds of more than 50, parents and family that wish to attend must be in the graduate’s vehicle.  There will be no congregating along the walkways or on the property to observe the event.  

 

In order for graduates to participate in the drive-by diploma pick-up, all school debts must be paid by 8:00 am on Wednesday, July 15th.  Any student who has remaining debt after the 15th will not be able to participate in the drive-by event, and the graduate’s diploma will be held until such time that all debts are paid.  For questions regarding school debts, please contact the District Office at 815-568-6511 ext. 1501.    

 

If you are unable to attend the drive-by diploma pick-up event please contact Mrs. Nora Stauber in Student Services no later than Wednesday, July 22nd at staubern@mchs154.org or 815-568-6511 ext. 1301 so we may plan accordingly.  The Class of 2020 Virtual Graduation Ceremony will be released immediately following this event so that families can have a viewing party if they would like.  Let’s make this day a fun and memorable event for the Class of 2020!  If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to one of us.

Sincerely,

       

David Engelbrecht, Ed.S. , Superintendent

Dr. Angela Fink, Principal

Original source can be found here.