SCHS Finalizing Graduation Plans

Stephens County High School is preparing for graduation ceremonies later this week.

Graduation is set for Friday at 7 p.m.

Stephens County High School Principal Sandy Steele updated the Stephens County Board of Education on graduation ceremony plans at last Thursday’s work session.

Steele said that the plan is to have graduation outside Friday night at the football stadium if the weather permits.

“So many had good reasons for why they wanted to try to have it outside,” said Steele. “I had reasons why I did not. I met with the school governance team. They stepped up to the plate. The community stepped up to the plate. All of the obstacles we had, which were mainly financial, were overcome, and a lot of people are chipping in. The students are going to help.”

He did say that they are watching the forecast and will make a decision this afternoon based on the forecast and if there is a chance for rain as to whether plans to have it outside will continue.

“If the chance (of rain) is 40 percent or higher, we abandon outside and go inside and put all of our efforts into decorating it and making it nice,” said Steele.

Steele went on to say that tickets will be required to attend graduation, even if it is an outside ceremony.

“We have calculated the number of seats,” said Steele. “Students get 15 tickets if it is outside, nine inside.”

He said if outside, that should seat everybody comfortably on the home stands.

“The sound quality will be good,” said Steele. “Viewing will be up close and personal. Photos won’t be so difficult, as it was when it was set up perpendicular to the stadium.”

He said he has multiple reasons for requiring tickets to attend graduation.

“This is a ceremonious event,” said Steele. “This is not a football game. It is not a tailgate party. It is not time for the young kids to roam around and play football games on the side. This is a serious ceremony that should be treated with dignity. You will not get in without a ticket. Bags are subject to being searched for air horns, cowbells, beach balls, any and all of the above. We will have a strong security force present.”

Once again, graduation is set for Friday at 7 p.m. at Stephens County High School.