Mahomet-Seymour changes graduation to May 16, video released on May 22

Mahomet-Seymour High School has altered its 2020 graduation plans, moving from a July 10 ceremony at Krannert Center to a May 16 live-streamed ceremony at Mahomet-Seymour High School where parents can virtually watch their child walk across the stage via Bulldog TV.

“As you know, things have continued to change during the pandemic and we have tried to adjust accordingly,” Mahomet-Seymour High School Chad Benedict wrote to students and parents in an email. “Given the information shared yesterday from the Governor and after visiting with officials from Krannert, there is a great deal of uncertainty as to what we can and cannot do.”

“This ceremony gives the opportunity to make sure we recognize our Seniors one final time in our building.” 

The ceremony will follow guidelines established by the Illinois State Board of Education and the Illinois Department of Public Health released on May 3. 

The ceremony on May 16 is expected to begin at 8:30 a.m. Students will sign up for a 15-minute time slot with 10 other graduates throughout the day. 

Only seniors, who will be required to enter the building in their cap and gown and a mask, will be allowed to enter the building during their allotted time. Students who need assistance will be able to bring one support person with them. Masks can be removed as the student crosses the stage.

Social distancing guidelines will be strictly enforced.

Mahomet-Seymour staff will also wear masks and observe social distancing. After each graduate, the space will be sanitized.

Per state guidelines, students will not receive their diploma as they cross the stage, but they will be distributed at a later date.

Mahomet-Seymour will also host a Senior Celebration in the Mahomet-Seymour parking lot on May 22.

Seniors and their families will have to remain in their vehicles as they drive through barricades and cones that will guide the student through an area where they can wave goodbye to staff.

“While this does not replace our traditional Graduation, we hope that our Students, Families, and Staff will find some comfort in getting to experience these activities together,” Benedict wrote.

The Mahomet-Seymour administration with the help of the Mahomet-Seymour Education Foundation provided all seniors with a yard sign in late April. 

Benedict said the last eight weeks have been hard on the administration and staff as they have tried to find a way to recognize the Class of 2020.

“We wanted to provide the best experience possible and not knowing how to plan was hard.  Everyone loves their student and wants to experience graduation with them,” he said Thursday. “Trying to find a safe alternative that meets the state guidelines was challenging.”

The video taken on May 16 will be edited and distributed on Bulldog TV at 7:30 p.m. on May 22, the original date of graduation prior to the COVID-19 crisis.