GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) - After much debate and careful consideration, Gridley High School Principal Justin Kern, announced that GHS intends to hold a modified traditional Graduation ceremony for the Class of 2020.

With the multiple disruptions the Class of 2020 has endured thanks to the COVID19 pandemic and so many unknowns, Principal Justin Kern, along with Superintendent Reeves and Vice-Principal Rikki-Lee Burresch held out to the last minute to announce the exciting news to GHS Seniors via email, Friday, May 22^nd.

Typically, Gridley High holds graduation the first weekend in June, but in order to make the somewhat traditional style graduation a reality for the Class of 2020, the school is pushing graduation ceremonies out further to Friday June 19^th.  Ceremonies will be held out on the football field at 7:00 pm, but entry will be restricted.

At a practice held earlier that morning, each graduate will receive 2 tickets. Principal Kern writes, “Tickets are limited so that we can appropriately space for our special guests within the stadium. I know there are students who will have difficulties with two guests, and while it saddens me at this time, it is the appropriate thing to do.” For those unable to attend, the ceremony will be live streamed so family and friends can watch from home.  Additionally, families or attendees will not be allowed on the field after the graduation ceremonies have concluded, with graduates reuniting with loved ones out in front of the school. The email does say, “If social restrictions are loosened prior to June 19^th, we will re-examine our dismissal procedures.”

Gridley Unified School District Admin are still keeping a close eye on the situation and are prepared to make changes to the plan if necessary. Superintendent Reeves stressed the need to remain flexible and have multiple plans in place in the event that the COVID19 pandemic worsens and restrictions prevent the graduation ceremonies to proceed as hoped.

Principal Kern says, “I want to thank the Board of Trustees and Superintendent Reeves for balancing health concerns while prioritizing our students that have unfairly lost so much, and allowing our celebration of your successes to take place.” He continues, “Mrs. Burresch and I are extremely thankful for the opportunity to recognize the Class of 2020. As I have stated this is a benchmark and not a finish line, but we recognize this is a significant milestone for many of you and your families and we couldn’t be more excited to be able to celebrate this moment with you!