Manasquan To Hold Virtual Graduations

MANASQUAN – Manasquan schools say they plan to hold virtual graduations this year now that Gov. Phil Murphy has prohibited live ceremonies for the time being.

The district said the school year has been a "unique and trying time for everyone. The new challenge of ending our school year without our students and teachers physically present was realized when Governor Murphy announced that in-person instruction was cancelled for the remainder of the 2019-2020 academic year."

Here is what is planned:

Graduation

The district said it recognizes that the celebration of 8th graders and high school seniors "is a critical milestone in their educational careers and should be acknowledged accordingly. To that end, and in keeping with current restrictions on gatherings, we are planning for three celebratory activities:"

• Virtual Graduation Event on June 11 (MES 8th Grade) & June 12 (MHS Class of 2020): The virtual graduation will be an online video release of a virtual version of normal ceremonies including speeches and recognition of graduates.
• Graduation Photos: Students or parents will be able to schedule a time to drive up to the front entrance of their respective schools to be photographed in their cap and gown with the Board President, Superintendent of Schools, and Principal. These individual student appointments will begin on June 15. Information on signing up for timeslots will be forthcoming to graduates.
• Possible In-Person Graduation Ceremony: Subject to the lifting or modification of current stay at home orders that would allow for such an event, the district will hold two traditional graduation ceremonies (for 8th graders and high school seniors) on the high school football field on June 25 (rain date June 26). Awarding of diplomas will take place at this event.
• All up-to-date guidelines regarding social distancing and precautions will be adhered to for such a ceremony (e.g. face coverings, physical distance, etc.). This is a tentative plan and will only occur if state restrictions permit. Due to the planning requirements of such an event, the decision to hold this in-person ceremony will be made on June 15 based on the state restrictions in place at that time. If this event is not permitted to occur, diplomas will be mailed home to graduates.
• Student Personal Materials at School / Laptop & School Property Returns: "We recognize that the abrupt closure of schools meant that students may have left personal property and materials in lockers, desks, etc. Our District custodial staff is in the process of gathering, bagging, and labeling these materials by student. Students likely also have school property (including laptops, books, etc.) at home that need to be returned to the school.
• Other End-of-Year Events:

• High School Senior Awards Night - June 2, 6:30 P.M. (Virtual/Online)
• Elementary School Awards Ceremony – June 4, 7:00 P.M. (Virtual/Online)