My daughter Madison has endured challenges beyond her control. Due to severe health issues, she spent several weeks in the hospital. Even after being discharged, Madison remains fatigued and unable to attend school regularly. Despite these circumstances, she holds onto the hope of experiencing key moments of her senior year.

The most personal blow came when we learned that Madison cannot participate in the graduation ceremony walk due to the school's rigid  policy. This policy unfairly penalizes students like Madison, who, through no fault of their own, have had to miss school and fall short of 31/2 credits and 51/2 hours of community service.  Watching her peers enjoy their high school experiences from a distance on social media has been tough. The graduation ceremony is not just another event; it symbolizes the culmination of years of hard work and perseverance and Madison has worked hard and persevered so much in her short life. 

Brookfield Public Schools' policy needs revision to be more inclusive and empathetic towards students facing medical or personal challenges. Graduation day is a milestone that every student, especially those battling personal hurdles, deserves to celebrate. Schools should adopt flexible policies allowing students who have challenges beyond their own control and almost academically finished to participate in the ceremony not asking for a completed diploma but an empty envelope and being able to participate.

Currently, most educational policies nationwide are increasingly allowing such leniencies. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, over 70% of school districts have made amendments to ensure all students participate in graduation regardless of circumstances like illness or family emergencies.

This petition urges the Brookfield Public Schools to take immediate action and amend their attendance policy for graduation. We propose that any student with extenuating circumstances be able to walk the stage during the ceremony. 

Sign this petition to bring about a compassionate change in school policy, ensuring students like Madison can celebrate their hard-earned accomplishments alongside their classmates.