KALAMAZOO, Mich. — Kalamazoo Public Schools announced Thursday the class of 2020 would be recognized in a video tribute.
“The senior traditions that we have been accustomed to in the past have been altered significantly due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” said KPS director of secondary education Johnny Edwards. "Given the restrictions on the assembly of large audiences in the state of Michigan, it is in the best interest, health, safety, and welfare of everyone to cancel all in-person senior celebrations, including graduation ceremonies.”
The principals of Kalamazoo Central, Loy Norrix, and Phoenix high schools sent recorded messages to their seniors, letting them know the decision.
"“This was a hard decision," the recording stated. "..But ultimately the safety and welfare of our students and families is our number one priority. We know this is not the way any of you expected to end your high school experience, but we also know that you are a strong, resilient group of students who will use this experience to make our world a better place."
The original dates for graduations in Kalamazoo were June 2-4, but a date for the virtual commencement has not been set.