KILLEEN, TX — Killeen ISD says it will cancel in-person commencement ceremonies unless conditions created by the spread of coronavirus improve.
The district says they are actively exploring a contingency plan that includes a virtual graduation.
The situation is fluid and could change if conditions improve.
They released the following statement:
Killeen ISD is committed to preserving traditional Commencement Exercises for the Class of 2020, however in light of the current COVID-19 health situation we are actively exploring a contingency plan that would include a virtual graduation.
Unless circumstances begin to change, holding traditional Commencement Exercises, will pose significant challenges to ensuring the health and well-being of all graduates, staff members and family members. That being said, the situation is fluid and can change. Please know we remain committed to providing further insight and information as soon as it becomes available.
We cannot begin to express the disappointment we feel as a district for our Seniors and their families during this time. Daily routines have drastically changed, and while we recognize the impact of these tough decisions, we also know there are experiences we will never be able to emulate virtually.
We recognize that our Seniors did not create this situation, and we appreciate the fact that they are resilient and understand that sometimes things in this journey of life are not easily accepted.
Many have reached out regarding pending travel arrangements, unfortunately several of the decisions at this point are being made at the State and Federal levels. We would highly encourage you to analyze cancellation policies associated with travel plans closely, the majority of airlines and hotels are allowing more flexibility than usual due to the pandemic.
Currently our campuses remain closed until May 4, 2020. Should the Governor extend the closure beyond that date, the district will move to the alternative plan for graduation.
If the decision is made to hold a virtual graduation, we will make the program available online, on KISD TV Channel 17, on DVD, and in a downloadable format.
While a virtual ceremony will never replace a traditional ceremony, it ensures that our graduating Seniors will be recognized and celebrated for the culmination of hard work they have accomplished over the past thirteen years.
As we continue to face the impact that COVID-19 will have on our district, our focus has been the safety of our students, staff, and community. More information regarding this contingency plan will be forthcoming. Please continue to visit our website for the latest on the district’s COVID-19 response www.killeenisd.org/COIVD19 [killeenisd.org] We have created a section for our graduating seniors with answers to frequently answer questions, www.killeenisd.org/seniors2020 [killeenisd.org]
