Coronavrius: More Clark, Champaign schools announce graduation dates

Southeastern Jr./Sr. High School

Southeastern Jr./Sr. High School

With the stay-at-home order and school closure that’s been in effect for nearly two months, many people in the community are wondering about senior graduation ceremonies.

Clark and Champaign schools will release details and plans as they are finalized, but two more have announced their graduation dates on their social media and websites.

Southeastern’s graduation has been moved to July 11.

“The district is still hoping to have a traditional graduation for our 2020 seniors. The administration and school board desperately want to provide our seniors a ceremony that resembles past graduations,” said Superintendent David Shea.

A virtual graduation component is in the works if the district is not able to provide the traditional style graduation, Shea said.

RELATED: Coronavirus: Some Clark, Champaign schools announce graduation dates

Urbana will hold a virtual graduation on the scheduled date of May 30 at 7:30 p.m.

“One of the highlights of each school year is our commencement ceremony where we recognize the members of our senior class. The tradition of walking down the hill for graduation began in 1941 and is a cherished aspect of our community,” said Superintendent Charles Thiel.

High school administrators are planning to meet with representatives of the senior class to get input and discuss additional details.

“Members of the graduation class will be scheduled to come to campus to be video recorded exiting the front door of the historic Castle building and walking down the hill,” Thiel said. “The final edited video of the ceremony will be presented via live stream.”

Only graduates will be allowed on campus during their scheduled time to be recorded, Thiel said, but administration and staff are planning to deliver the diplomas before the ceremony airs so that families can see the actual presentation.

RELATED: Springfield announces graduation details, senior celebration

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