May 2020 News

UPDATE – Graduation Information

Thursday, May 7, 2020

Dear Class of 2020,

Thank you for participating in our graduation survey. We received 165 responses (parents were asked to respond as well). From your replies, it is clear that you want an in-person graduation ceremony no matter when it may be. To this end, we are hoping for an on-campus graduation ceremony for you sometime this fall.

There are challenges and many potential unknowns about the fall, including how dissimilar it may need to be from the traditional Academy ceremonies in the past.

• The governor may still call for restrictions for large groups.
• Ball State may still restrict large group gatherings on campus.
• COVID-19 infections could still be increasing.
• Some of our 2020 graduates will not be able to attend on that date due to college, distance, or other plans.
• We may have to limit the number of individuals who can attend.
• It may need to be outside and could be impacted by inclement weather.

If we are not able to hold graduation in the fall, perhaps for some of the above reasons, we hope to plan one for early next year. And if for any reason neither of those times are possible, we will find another date!

If you think there is a possibility that you will not be able to attend the graduation ceremonies, we would like you to send in a picture of yourself in your graduation garb, wearing your medals, stoles, and cords. Those photos will be shown when your name is read at the ceremony. You can send them to Mr. Raleigh at craleigh.

Additionally, we are still planning on having our Senior recognition night on Friday May 22, 2020 at 7:00 pm. This program will be on-line and possibly live streamed.

Karen Workman’s video of your baby pictures, graduation pictures, and your quotes will be shown, as faculty read the clubs and activities you have been a part of while in high school. Scholarships will be announced and there will be a surprise video at the end. We will give you more information on how to view the evening program as the time gets closer.

We are working to give you an in-person graduation if it is at all within our prerogative, hopefully sooner than later. You definitely deserve one!

Hopefully,
Dr. Vickie Barton