Medford High School 2020 Graduation Canceled

MEDFORD, MA — The commencement ceremony for the Medford High School Class of 2020 has been canceled, the district announced Wednesday. The ceremony had been scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 15 at Hormel Stadium with social distancing requirements in place.

The decision came after several members of the Medford High School community, who were scheduled to participate in the graduation ceremony, tested positive for COVID-19, the district said.

Health officials told the superintendent that in addition to multiple positive tests, there was significant evidence that people who tested positive failed to comply with the public health guidance regarding isolation and quarantining.

"We are devastated not to have the opportunity to congratulate and commend our seniors upon the completion of their high school careers, but we cannot place so many members of the Medford community at risk by moving ahead with a ceremony," Superintendent Marice Edouard-Vincent, Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn and Board of Health Director MaryAnn O'Connor said in a joint statement. "The failure to comply with the restrictions and advice of public health officials is simply unacceptable. It is critically important that all community members, including the students of the Medford Public Schools, adhere to public health guidance. The safety and well-being of all community members will continue to be our highest priority."

O'Connor emphasized that those who test positive for the coronavirus must isolate for at least 10 days.

"Anyone who has been identified as a direct contact must quarantine for 14 days, regardless of a negative test," O'Connor added. "It is also critical that residents avoid large gatherings, like graduation parties or other events."

Community members who have tested positive and other individuals identified by the Board of Health's contract tracing efforts will be contacted directly. Information regarding the certification and distribution of diplomas will be released in the coming days.