Mass. high schools allowed to have outdoor graduations starting mid-July, schools re-evaluating plans

BOSTON — Massachusetts high schools are re-evaluating their graduation plans after the state announced graduation ceremonies can be held outdoors starting in mid-July.

According to guidance released by Commissioner Jeffrey C. Riley and the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary education, ceremonies held between now and July 18 should be held virtually.

Ceremonies held beginning July 19 may take place outside with restrictions if the public health data supports the continued opening of the state.

Some school districts, like Boston Public Schools and Worcester, are choosing to only hold virtual graduation ceremonies with pre-taped speeches.

High schools in Plymouth, Milton, Norwood, Franklin and Attleboro will host drive-thru graduations.

While some parents and students aren’t happy with the decisions, others are just grateful they’re being celebrated in some way.

“I believe it could be done. These kids worked really hard the past four years, I think they deserve a little bit more than a drive-by,” one Franklin High School mom said.

“If we aren’t able to have an in-person full graduation then being able to walk across the stage itself is a really cool experience and at least sort of mimics what it would be like on a real day,” Sam Bloch an Attleboro High School senior said.

Governor Baker will hold a virtual graduation for all Massachusetts high school grads on June 9th featuring appearances from celebrities like Steve Carell along with the New England Patriots, Boston Red Sox and Boston Celtics players.

Correction: An earlier version of this article said Norwood High School would wait until mid-July for an in-person ceremony. That has been corrected to say they are hosting a drive-thru graduation.

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