Proposed GR Graduation Seating Change Quashed

A last-minute proposal to have attendees of the Glen Rock High School graduation relocate from the usual perch on the field to the bleachers has been nixed, Superintendent Paula Valenti said Wednesday.

Valenti on Monday suggested moving some the family members from their seating places at the new turf field up to the bleacher, which would place the graduates more in the center of the action. The move would have protected the new turf field and also those walking on it (turf gets pretty toasty in summer heat).

There was push back from the audience on Monday night, with participants saying it would disrupt tradition, a tradition they prefer.

In a phone interview on Wednesday, Valenti – who joined the district in April – said she acquiesced and will largely keep the traditional seating arrangement in place. Family members will remain on the grass though there is a "minor modification to make it more intimate" by altering the spacing, she said.

"I announced that last night at the booster dinner to honor the request and was appreciative of the respectful way in which the students and parents made their concerns known to me," Valenti said. "I had my own request of them as well – I made the request that the seniors be respectful of the school, and their staff and their administrators for the remainder of the year."

Graduation kicks off on Thursday, June 20.