As New Jersey continues with Phase 2 of the reopening amid the COVID-19 pandemic, directives regarding graduation ceremonies have been constantly changing. As a result, graduation ceremonies differ by municipality.
In North Bergen, outdoor in-person graduation ceremonies will go forward.
Dr. George Solter, North Bergen Superintendent of Schools, made the announcement to high school and eighth grade students via video.
“We will be having outdoor celebrations for the class of 2020,” Solter said.
High School graduation is scheduled for July 8 and 9. Due to the size of the Class of 2020, the celebration will be split up over two days into multiple ceremonies.
Eighth grade graduation is scheduled for July 13. Graduations will take place outdoors in Bruin Stadium, in Braddock Park.
Solter also announced important information on picking up student belongings from school lockers and dropping off school supplies, among other things.
Residents can watch the video on the Township of North Bergen’s website at http://www.northbergen.org/News/View/3391/schools-announce-outdoor-graduation-ceremonies-and-more.
Diploma pickup
Seniors will pick up their diplomas while dropping off their Chromebook laptops.
Students who borrowed a Chromebook during virtual learning must return it when they pick up their diplomas.
The distribution will be Monday, June 22 and Tuesday, June 23. All students must wear masks when picking up their diplomas and awards.
While they have made a determination on graduation ceremonies for the Class of 2020, Solter said that a decision has not yet been made regarding the next school year.
According to Solter, North Bergen will be setting up committees, including administrators, teachers, and parents.
However, much like everything amid COVID-19, things may be subject to change as the day gets closer. Solter said he would update the community if there were further changes.
More information regarding the graduation ceremonies and the following school year will be available in the coming weeks, Solter said in the video.
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