By Raiza Giorgi
publisher@santaynezvalleystar.com
Santa Ynez Valley Union High School District officials were hoping that by July there would be an opportunity to have their in-person graduation ceremony, as parents who answered a school survey indicated they still wanted in person celebrations.
“I promised you all a follow-up letter regarding graduation as soon as I received an update from Santa Barbara County Public Health. That happened today and, sadly, it is not the news that we all hoped to receive. The current health order does not permit us to hold an in-person graduation ceremony,” wrote Superintendent Scott Cory.
The high school did do a “drive-through” graduation on June 5, where parents and students paraded around the Santa Ynez Valley on a route that ended driving onto the football field to acknowledge their transition from high school.
Some of the comments on the Star’s social media about the drive through ceremony was that it was even better than having to sit through several hours of commencement speeches, but the students remarked they were bummed not to be able to do the typical graduation honor of throwing caps or having graduation parties.
“Seniors, I wish you all the best in the years to come. Now more than ever, our world needs the very best you have to offer. The future is in your hands and your potential is great. Parents, for what you have had to forego during this special transition time for your lives as well, I wish it were otherwise. I greatly appreciate both your support and understanding over the course of the past few months,” Cory stated in his letter.
The situation for re-opening school in the fall for all levels is still up in the air as many schools are opting for a hybrid model where students are split into two groups and others districts like Lucia Mar Unified School District in Arroyo Grande stated they will be starting completely distance learning.
Governor Gavin Newsom is set to make announcements about school openings on Friday, July 17. Check back for updates to this story.
