Graduates get to walk the walk

White County High School will hold its second graduation for the Class of 2020 – in a traditional outside setting – this Saturday, July 25.

The event begins at 9 a.m. at Warrior Stadium. It follows a drive-in graduation held at the school parking lot in May in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. School officials had previously announced students could attend one or both ceremonies. Principal Mary Anne Collier said about 100 or so students are expected to attend Saturday’s graduation.

Collier added that the program is expected to be shorter with fewer students attending than did in May. There will be no valedictorian and salutatorian speeches. Though the students received their diplomas in May, they’ll still be recognized as they cross the stage.

Graduates need to wear their caps, gown and tassel, and have the option to wear other regalia. Students must be in the main gym by 8 a.m. Only graduates will be allowed in the gym, no family members or guests.

Students are asked to maintain social distancing from others throughout the event. The students will be escorted into and out of the stadium. There will be no gathering on the field before or after graduation, and parents can meet their graduate in the parking lot.

Graduates will receive six entrance tickets for guests. The last day to pick up tickets is Thursday, July 23, from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Stadium gates will open at 8 a.m., 

and attendees are asked to sit only with their group/family in one of the designated sections.  Handicap parking will be available on the top row of the lot, and only vehicles with a handicap tag will be allowed to park there. For the event, handicapped seating will be available in top/back row at the stadium.

Face coverings will not required, though everyone is encouraged to wear one. All staff members will be wearing face coverings. Restrooms will be available in the stadium. Because the weather is expected to be hot, guests are encouraged to bring water to stay hydrated.