Education

A drive-in graduation ceremony? Philipsburg-Osceola School District sets commencement plans

The Philipsburg-Osceola class of 2020 will walk across the stage to receive their diplomas, but graduates will have to wait and celebrate at a drive-in screening of the ceremony.

Philipsburg-Osceola Area School District seniors will be invited back to participate in commencement. In scheduled shifts, students will receive their diploma in a cap and gown while being recorded. The video will be edited and compiled to create a virtual ceremony that will be screened at the Super 322 Drive-In in Clearfield County.

“We’re all trying to do our best,” Superintendent Gregg Paladina said during Tuesday’s board meeting. “I think we’ll put up something really nice and memorable for these students. It’s very unfortunate ... but right now, it’s the safest way to go.”

The district is in the process of organizing a procession that adheres to social distancing guidelines.

High school Principal Justin Hazelton said the final product will include pre-recorded speeches from administrators and students.

A screening date has not been announced, but every district family will receive a copy of the video.

The State College and Penns Valley Area school districts have announced plans for virtual and in-person graduation ceremonies, scheduled for June.

This story was originally published May 13, 2020 at 8:39 AM.

Marley Parish
Centre Daily Times
Marley Parish reports on local government for the Centre Daily Times. She grew up in Slippery Rock and graduated from Allegheny College.
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