LCSD Press Release- Re: Graduation

LAKE CHELAN SCHOOL DISTRICT PRESS RELEASE 05.13.2020

The following is a press release for the Lake Chelan School District. We would appreciate your cooperation in providing this information to the public. Should you require further information please contact Superintendent, Barry DePaoli at 509-470-0110.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

May 13, 2020 — Graduation has been a long-standing tradition in our community – an important milestone that commemorates and honors the accomplishments of our seniors. In 2020, Chelan High School will graduate 115 seniors. Given the ongoing impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic, school officials have anticipated that this event may look a little different this year. A traditional, in-person event has the potential to draw large crowds of families and friends, increasing the likelihood of COVID-19 exposure and spread in our community. School districts in our region have been working in partnership with the Chelan-Douglas Health District to explore various options for safely hosting graduation ceremonies this year.

The Lake Chelan School District has worked closely with local healthcare and public health officials to evaluate the virus’s potential impact in the community. In consultation with Chelan-Douglas Health District Administrator, Barry Kling; Confluence Health CEO, Dr. Peter Rutherford; and Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Stewart Freed, the District has decided to host a “Drive-In Graduation Ceremony”. We will also look for ways to live stream the ceremony. Although this is far from our traditional graduation ceremony, we have determined that this option best adheres to the guidelines and recommendations from our county health experts.

“In no way do we want to jeopardize the health and safety of our community,” said Barry DePaoli, Lake Chelan School District Superintendent. “Although this is not what the seniors were expecting, we will work with students, parents, and our community to ensure that this ceremony celebrates our seniors and their accomplishments. Needless to say, the Class of 2020’s sacrifices and ability to adapt to the challenges of this moment will not be forgotten.”

We want to thank the community for your continued support of our students as we all adapt to the conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic. School officials will meet with parents and students later this week to begin designing the ceremony, and more specific details about the event will be provided to the community in the near future.