For the second year in a row, graduating high school students will face scaled back celebrations at the end of the school year, which is fast approaching.
Even with the recent lifting of some COVID-19 restrictions by the Provincial Health Office, the rite of passage for the class of 2021 is all about adapting to the new normal, even if that has slightly shifted with the recent reduction in coronavirus infections and continuing climb of vaccination rates.
A ceremony at Brooks Secondary School in compliance with COVID-19 safety protocols will take place on June 28, two days after a vehicle parade, which drew large numbers of socially distanced spectators along a lengthy route last year, once again takes to the streets of Powell River on June 26.
Receiving their certificates in front of only four guests is a far cry from the annual spectacle that took place in Powell River Recreation Complex until 2019, the last “old normal” graduation year, which typically featured grand marches, dancing, presentations, and large attendance numbers in Hap Parker Arena. Livestreaming will allow a larger group to witness students cross the stage at the ceremony this year, and sort of be there in spirit, which softens the blow of not being able to attend in person to see a family member or friend celebrate an important milestone.
Information about the parade time and route will be featured in next week’s print issue of the Peak. The ceremony at the school, of course, is by invite/registration only.
Fingers crossed that the class of 2022 can revert to “old normal” celebrations.
