In a letter to the Class of 2020 posted yesterday, School District of Palm Beach County Superintendent Dr. Donald E. Fennoy announced that this year’s graduation ceremonies slated to be held at the South Florida Fairgrounds Convention Center have been cancelled due to the conronavirus pandemic.

The announcement immediately set off a wave of protest leading to the circulation of several petitions calling for a postponement of the ceremonies rather than a cancellation.

In his letter to seniors, Fennoy made mention that the district is exploring alternatives so that the Class of 2020 can be “celebrated in grand fashion”  as it deserves.

“Moving forward, the District will be communicating with your principal and your student government representatives regarding other viable opportunities to mark this great milestone in your life,” Fennoy wrote.

In an all call to Olympic Heights seniors and their parents this morning, principal Ms. Kelly Mills-Burke stated that the school and school district are looking into alternative sites for an OH graduation ceremony, “in the event the federal and state government allow large gatherings in a reasonable time frame.” 

Nevertheless, Fennoy’s letter stated that graduates should expect to receive their diplomas via mail.