Although all students in Prince George and district are having to adjust to a new reality of learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, it's especially impactful for this year's grade 12 class.
Normally, this semester would be full of planning for prom and graduation celebrations as grade 12s celebrate the successful completion of their high school careers.
However, because the province suspended in-class learning and gatherings of over 50 people to facilitate physical distancing and stop the spread of the virus, those celebrations have been put on hold.
During last night’s (April 7) School District 57 (SD57) public meeting, the board of education made a special acknowledgement to those students who are getting ready to graduate.
“I think we recognize that there is a lot of stress and anxiety, and disappointment, about not being able to participate in what normal grad months would look like,” said Board Chair Tim Bennett.
“I know there has been some conversations at the district table about how we can ensure that celebrations will occur when it is safe to do so. We recognize to all of our graduating classes that these next few months are going to look different and please know the board is thinking of you during these challenging times.”
Superintendent Anita Richardson also spoke to graduating students during her address to the board.
“I would like to also say that our hearts go out to you, the grad class of 2020, during these unusual times and we are committed to seeing celebrations continue when it is safe to do so into the fall and winter of 2020 should it be,” said Richardson.
“We look to our schools to further create plans to help those students celebrate the momentous occasion.”
When he made the March 17 announcement suspending in-class instruction, B.C. Education Minister Rob Fleming assured students will get a final mark for the year and all students who are on track to move to the next grade will do so.
Graduation assessments will be postponed, but Fleming said everyone who is eligible will graduate, and the ministry is working with post-secondary institutions to ensure successful and smooth transitions.
SD57 says it’ll continue to update parents and students via its website and social media outlets.
