High schools in Waterloo region plan alternate celebrations for graduates

As Ontario announces school will not go back to in-person learning until September, COVID-19 has once again cancelled high school grads' promposals, "saying yes to the dress" and tuxedo rentals, and all the other traditional trimmings that come with graduation.

Maya Samra, who is in Grade 12 at Cameron Heights Collegiate Institute in Kitchener, said she and her friends had thought of renting a limo but reconsidered.

"What's the point?We don't really get to go anywhere."

Instead, Samra says she and a few friends are now planning a small backyard gathering that fits into public health outdoor gathering limits.

On Wednesday, Premier Doug Ford announced students would not return to in-class learning in June andencouraged school boards to hold outdoor graduation ceremonies in the fall, in the name of public safety.

The Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB), has moved its convocation ceremonyto the fall of 2021 and have left each school to make their own plans for a June sendoff.

Grad week planned

Kenzy Soror, student elect co-trustee for the Waterloo Region District School Board and student at Cameron Heights Collegiate Institute, says her high school is planning a week-long event for grads.

"Students will be able to pick up ordered yearbooks, t-shirts, grad gowns, and caps. There will be an open parking lot with the opportunity for students to take their own photos in limited group numbers," said Soror.

"A special video will be put out. There will be grad recognition, and fun activities for the class of 2021."

Soror says at meetings with the student senate, which consist of student representatives at secondary schools, the consensus is students are flexible and willing to conform to safety precautions for an outdoor event.

Last year, schools celebrated with lawn signs while Grand River Collegiate Institute in Kitchener held a drive-thru grad in the school parking lot.

Moving on

Soror adds that a lot of students are trying to put thepandemic years behind them, and are looking ahead to the next stage of their life.

"Many students have actually gotten over graduation. They are starting university or college soon, for example, which may involve moving away from home for some," said Soror."For them, the excitement has actually shifted from the end of this chapter to the beginning of their new one.

Samra says while she has been accepted to university, she's still considering her options for post-secondary education.

"I actually have to consider, first year, where am I going to be? Am I going to have to move out and do in-person classes or do I have the option to just be online and at home?," says Samra.

"And at one point, I did consider a gap year to maybe work, and save up. I know a lot of other people that it impacted their decision to start post-secondary right away. So a lot of people that I know are seeking gap years None of that's been solidified yet."

On Wednesday, Ford said the province is pushing for a "safe and normal" return to school in September.

Hear their full conversation with The Morning Edition's host Craig Norris, below: