AUBURN — The Edward Little High School graduation ceremony has been moved from the municipal airport to the Walton Elementary School football field.
In a letter to 2021 graduates and their families, Principal Scott Annear wrote that new state and federal guidelines for outdoor gatherings will allow the ceremony to take place on the “historic” Walton Field.
“The past year has taught us to be flexible and adapt to changes that have arisen,” Annear wrote.
Graduation is set for 8 p.m. Saturday, June 5. Students will march in procession and be seated on the field side by side. Guests also will be seated beside each other. Masks will be optional because it will be outdoors, Annear said.
A covered stage will be erected for speakers and the presentation of diplomas.
The event will take place rain or shine.
Other details:
• Each graduate will have eight tickets for guests. Additional tickets can be requested. Two tickets to park will be given to each, no exceptions.
• Handicapped seating and mobility needs will be provided.
• Parking will be on the grass field next to the football field.
• Honors music students will perform.
• A digital video screen will be placed on each side of the stage.
• The ceremony will be livestreamed through Facebook Live on the Auburn School Department page.
• Rain ponchos will be provided for students, staff and guests.
• Restrooms will be available inside Walton School.
Class Night will be held Wednesday, June 2, at the high school gym. The time is to be announced. Masks will be required.
It was unclear Thursday whether the Lewiston High School graduation would still take place at the Auburn-Lewiston Municipal Airport, as planned.
Principal Gus LeBlanc could not be reached for comment. The plan posted on the district’s website is for the ceremony to begin at 11 a.m. Sunday, June 6, at the Auburn airport.
According to the plan outlined by LeBlanc, people must remain in their vehicles for the duration of the event. The vehicles must be parked 6 feet apart.
Graduates will be seated near a stage (socially distanced) and masks must be worn at all times.
“Our focus for graduation this year is to preserve this cherished moment for students and their loved ones,” LeBlanc wrote in his letter to students, staff and parents.
“The LHS administration is upbeat and positive about this year’s commencement ceremony and is focused on the graduates who earned this day to celebrate with family and friends,” he wrote.
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