‘Our hearts go out to you’ as these Bellingham graduation ceremonies go virtual
High school seniors in Bellingham will not graduate with each other in person because of social distancing mandates to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Greg Baker, superintendent for Bellingham Public Schools, announced the decision on Wednesday, May 13, which means that graduation ceremonies for Bellingham, Options, Sehome and Squalicum high schools will be moved online.
“We can’t hold big ceremonies inside or out,” Baker said to the Bellingham School Board on Wednesday night, acknowledging that he’s received some emails from those who were disappointed. “Even if it’s outside, it’s not safe.”
He noted that Gov. Jay Inslee denied Spokane Public Schools request for an in-person graduation ceremony in June in Joe Albi Stadium.
The request for a June 6-7 ceremony was denied because “the governor doesn’t expect larger gatherings like that will be feasible that soon after the stay-at-home order is lifted,” Ally Barrera, a spokesperson for the Spokane school district, said in a KREM 2 story.
Gov. Jay Inslee’s order is set through May 31.
The virtual graduation for Bellingham high schools will be at 6 p.m. on June 12 and will include student and staff speakers, music and photos of all graduates.
“We encourage each graduate and their friends and family to watch this event as soon as it’s live (at the same time but apart),” Baker wrote in a message on the school district’s website.
The effort will include giving each senior a yard sign and a poster congratulating them, Baker wrote in his message.
The week of June 8, also known as senior week will have special virtual events organized by each high school.
June 11 is the last day of school for seniors.
Seniors will be invited back to their high schools to pick up their caps and gowns in the coming days and weeks, according to Baker, and should expect to practice social distancing when they do so, including staggered arrival times and staying in their vehicles.
The superintendent also encouraged families to keep an eye on school communications because circumstances can change quickly.
“We appreciate the resilience and positive attitudes demonstrated by our seniors during this pandemic. We know that so many of you were looking forward to a traditional, in-person event, and our hearts go out to you,” Baker wrote.
“Please know that our district and community are celebrating each of you and your accomplishments,” he wrote.
