ALCDSB to hold virtual graduation ceremonies this month

The Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board (ALCDSB) sent a letter to families in the school community yesterday, Monday, June 7, 2021, regarding graduation plans for the school year.

“In the interest of equity for students and families, and the logistics around planning graduation ceremonies so late in the school year, the Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board will celebrate the class of 2021 this month rather than delaying until the upcoming school year,” David DeSantis, Director of Education for ALCDSB said in the letter.

In the province’s Roadmap to Reopen announcement yesterday, the government said they will enable school boards for public and private elementary and high schools to invite students back for a brief outdoor end-of-year celebration. Local public health guidelines need to be met for any gatherings or celebrations of this type.

“It is our position that given the current public health protocols in place, lack of preparation time, and for the health and safety of all students, staff, and their families, we will continue with our existing plans for virtual graduation ceremonies for our elementary students graduating to secondary school, and our secondary students graduating to a workplace, apprenticeship, college or university,” he continued.

According to the letter, School Principals will be in contact with their Catholic school communities with more details in the coming days.

DeSantis concluded, “On behalf of our Board of Trustees and senior team, I congratulate our students for demonstrating the perseverance, grit and determination that was required to navigate the last two school years; especially those students that will be graduating.”