SPASH announces plans for graduation ceremony

By Patrick Lynn

The Stevens Point Area Public School District has announced plans for the Class of 2020’s graduation ceremony.

The ceremony is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 7, at Community Stadium in Goerke Park.

A separate ceremony will be held for the 83 graduates of the city’s alternative high school, the Charles Fernandez Center, on August 6, also at Community Stadium.

The commencement ceremony for both groups of students was originally slated for May 24 and is typically held in the SPASH Fieldhouse.

In a video message sent to parents this week, SPASH principal Jon Vollendorf said the ceremony for his 456 students will include traditional components “in a video format to be compiled ahead of the August ceremony,” featuring students walking across the stage and having their name read aloud.

It’s the best the school can do under current social distancing guidelines set forth during the coronavirus pandemic, Vollendorf said.

“We are hopeful that this later summer date and outdoor venue will allow us to safely celebrate the accomplishments of our students,” he added.

Charles Fernandez Center principal/school psychologist Jennifer Knecht said in an email statement that she was thankful for the community’s support.

“We feel fortunate to see the community coming together for our seniors in big and small ways,” she said.

The district will announce additional details about the ceremonies, and the popular Project Grad event, they are confirmed.