Graduations and end-of-year activities

Limestone Learning Foundation
Graduations and end-of-year activities
Posted on 06/09/2021
Image of a graduate wearing a gown and mortar board and holding a diploma

Graduations are an important milestone for students, families and staff. Graduation will look different this year to minimize the risk of spreading COVID-19 in our communities. Schools look forward to recognizing and celebrating students in Grades 8 and 12 in meaningful and memorable ways that also continue to ensure the health, safety and well-being of everyone.

In most cases, Limestone schools will proceed with previously planned graduation events that include a hybrid of virtual ceremonies and individual in-person appointments; smaller-scale options that pose the least risk as per guidance from KFL&A Public Health. Individual schools have special plans in place to recognize all graduates, which also considers equitable access for students in all communities and circumstances. Not all families are able to attend in-person events.

Graduates in Grades 8 and 12 will receive specific information from their school about their individual ceremony. Schools will work directly with families to arrange individual appointment opportunities to attend the school in person to collect diplomas and awards. As per Ministry of Education requirements, all events will take place outdoors.

Up to two guests are invited to accompany the student while adhering to all public health protocols. All attendees must pre-screen for symptoms of COVID-19, validate their screening upon arrival, sign in for contact tracing purposes, wear masks, perform hand hygiene, and maintain 2-metre physical distancing at all times. Gathering on school property before and after these appointments is not permitted.

Schools will finalize individual arrangements for graduation events for Grades 8 and 12 and communicate these plans to families as soon as possible. Students in Grade 6 who are leaving for another school may also have an opportunity for an appointment-based celebration.

Larger-scale in-person events for non-graduating grades by class cohort are not possible. Given the current Ministry requirements, schools do not have the capacity or time to meet the required public health protocols to ensure student, family and staff safety. Schools will, however, offer an opportunity for all students to attend school individually to pick up any belongings that were left behind and collect report cards.

Schools will also be in touch regarding the return of board property. Unless your student(s) require(s) board devices (Chromebooks, iPads, internet hot spots, other learning materials) for summer learning (secondary summer session, Read-A-Lot, other etc.), they should be returned to your school. Schools will provide specific direction on return dates and times.

Schools will continue to do their best to finish this year in a way that is supportive of students. Many schools have already shared some innovative and creative ways to engage students before they depart for the summer break.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work together to keep everyone safe and healthy.

 

The Limestone District School Board is situated on traditional territories of the Anishinaabe & Haudenosaunee.