Crystal Lake D155 Schools To Host Outdoor Graduations Next Month

CRYSTAL LAKE, IL — Graduating from high school is a milestone many hope to celebrate, and this year, seniors in Crystal Lake's District 155 schools will be among the revelers.

The district on Monday announced its high schools will each host two outdoor graduation ceremonies on May 15 at 10 a.m. and noon. In the event of inclement weather, they will be moved back one day, to May 16, in the same time slots.

While graduations will go on, coronavirus prevention precautions will remain in place.

Graduating seniors will be asked to indicate whether they are interested in attending in-person graduation and will be allowed to select their ceremony time by filling out a survey from their building principal, the district said.

Graduations will be limited to 25 percent of outdoor space capacity, and time slots will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, according to the district.

The district said each graduate will be allowed to bring four in-person guests, and each ceremony will be streamed live online for those who cannot attend in person.

Students on Tuesday will be sent an email allowing them to select their preferred graduation time, the district said. Surveys must be completed by Sunday.

"Though this year has been full of challenges, change, and a lack of the traditional celebrations our seniors normally take part in, we understand the importance of providing a commencement ceremony to safely celebrate your time in District 155," District Superintendent Steve Olson said in a news release. "We’re looking forward to commemorating your hard work, resilience, and success over the last four years."