Last year, the Coronavirus pandemic completely changed how we recognized our graduating seniors. Virtual events, graduates at their homes with only immediate family, and diplomas conferred by mail became the norm instead of traditional commencements. Now that the vaccinated population has grown, including youth age 12 and up, Graduation 2021 in many communities could be more traditional. But COVID-19 safety will still require adjustments and extra planning compared to pre-pandemic years.
Graduation is the kind of milestone students, family, friends and fellow grads want to celebrate together. Recognizing this achievement is important and each student deserves their moment. However, social distancing and other recommended public health measures are necessary to hold down the spread to unvaccinated persons and those who are especially vulnerable.
Outdoor graduation ceremonies significantly reduce transmission risks. Spacing out attendees within the limitations of your venue could mean conducting several smaller ceremonies instead of one large one. Consult with your local public health agency about current conditions in your community in deciding the capacity, restrictions, and the type of screening for any in-person events.
"Consult with your local public health agency in planning a safe graduation."
Graduates, family members, speakers and performers, and charter school staff all count toward the capacity limits. Use control measures, such as ground markings, cordons and signage to enforce proper social distancing. Entry and exit procedures must be well communicated. If screening is to be conducted at the event, be sure there are enough screening staff and methods to prevent crowding at entrances. At the conclusion of the ceremony, provide clear instructions and have staff to direct an orderly exit from the venue.
In some areas, it may not yet be advisable to have a more traditional in-person graduation. You may want to have a “Plan B” alternative to safely recognize graduates, especially where the situation remains fluid. Consider drive-in or drive-through style graduations, to preserve safe social distancing and avoid large crowds. Please refer to California Department of Public Health recommended guidelines for commencement events. Information is updated frequently with the latest developments.
No one wants this year’s graduations spoiled by regret. Safety is the first consideration in planning your graduation events. When it comes to preventing the spread of COVID-19, the details will matter. Additional Tips for Safe Graduation Ceremonies are in our recent Loss Control Bulletin.