Graduation location change: A message from Superintendent Dr. Janet Dunlop
Launch the media gallery 1 playerDue to increased venue costs associated with the current pandemic, Broken Arrow Public Schools has decided to relocate its graduation ceremony from the BOK Center to Broken Arrow High School's Memorial Stadium.
The ceremony is still scheduled for 8 p.m. on June 30 and is contingent on whether all COVID-19 bans are lifted by the state and the City of Broken Arrow. Our makeup date is July 7 if rain is expected in the forecast.
The district will continue to follow protocols provided by the CDC, Governor Stitt and the Oklahoma Department of Education. The additional floor space on Tiger Field will allow for appropriate social distancing of our seniors, and we are actively developing a plan for patrons based on current guidelines.
Due to the fluidity of the situation, some details will remain unknown until the date approaches, including:
- whether patrons will be able to attend
- the number of patrons able to safely attend
- whether a ticketing system will be utilized in the event current guidelines suggest patrons may safely attend
- the guidelines for appropriate social distancing among spectators and students
Please know we are doing everything in our power to end the Class of 2020’s senior year in a way that honors their hard work. While I know change is difficult, I also know it provides an opportunity to embrace new experiences. It’s a chance for a fresh start and new memories. I truly believe there is no better place than our own turf to celebrate such an incredible group of students. So thank you, seniors and families. I’ve greatly appreciated your flexibility and support as we’ve continued to navigate these uncharted waters together.
Virtual Senior Celebration
We encourage you to join us as we honor the Class of 2020 with a virtual celebration at home together. It will premiere LIVE on the district’s Facebook page and YouTube channel at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 19, and will be available for viewing after this date on both channels. On this night, we will honor and celebrate our seniors on the night in which they were originally scheduled to graduate.
Produced by the ArrowVision video team and hosted by senior students David Grant and Tori Chin, the 60 minute program will feature speeches by Broken Arrow High School Principal Liz Burns, STUCO President Haylee Floyd, Senior Class President Peyton Dayer and Representative from the Class of Distinction Denali Huffman. It will also give a shoutout to every high school senior and will feature video content typically showcased during graduation, including senior superlatives, the senior song and much more.
We are encouraging ALL seniors to put on their cap and gown, take a selfie with your family during the program and use the hashtag #BA20AtHomeTogether.
Hang in there
We know there are so many unknowns right now. Circumstances have been less than ideal, especially for our seniors. Regardless of what the next few months bring, please remember that your Class is one to be remembered. Your Class will be in the history books. The Class of 2020 will never be forgotten. So stand tall, students, and know we are so proud of you!
I’ll be touch.
Dr. Janet Dunlop
Superintendent of Schools