For thousands of Long Beach high school and college graduates, the final send-off they’ve worked towards for years is taking a different shape. As a result of the coronavirus pandemic, the many Classes of 2020 will not be gathering, partying, or bidding their goodbyes with hugs this year.
Social distancing may be preventing our traditional graduation ceremonies and celebrations, but there are plenty of ways to still make our graduates feel special and honored. From virtual ceremonies to celebratory drive-bys, Long Beach is showing their student pride in new ways. Let’s discover some clever ways to celebrate graduation safely this year.
Virtual Commencements
Covid-19 may have cancelled in-person ceremonies this year, but many schools are stepping up with virtual commencement programs that students and families can tune-in to. For instance, Long Beach Community College is hosting their ceremony on Friday June 12thand all graduates will be welcomed to walk in next year’s graduation ceremony.
Decorate the Yard
Let everyone know how much your graduate has accomplished by sharing their honors and achievements right outside your home. Use posters and balloons to show your student they deserve to be celebrated by all. Even better – organize a car parade where friends and family can drive by to wish the graduate well.
Capture the Moment
Photographers can often operate within social distancing measures. Organize an extra special graduation photo shoot to capture this special moment. Students who have kept up with video and photo documenting during their school journeys can create video to share with friends and family.
Host a Fancy Dinner In
Many families like to celebrate graduation with a formal dinner out. To stay safe while keeping it classy for graduation, plan a fancy dinner in. Make sure everyone dresses up, including the graduate in cap and gown. Plan a delicious meal or order from one of Long Beach’s delicious restaurants offering take away.
Plan for the Future
No graduation celebration is complete without the bittersweet send-off in the company of your classmates, teachers, and families. We don’t know quite how long social distancing will impact our ability to gather in groups, but we will be together again. Delegate a 2020 Graduation Party Task Force at your school to prepare and plan a post-graduation party in the future to celebrate the Class of 2020.
