Hello

Many of you know Richwoods is planning to have our graduation in the gym. Each student will provided with 8 tickets each. For many students this has caused a major dilemma. Students with extended immediate families are having to choose 8 family members which is very difficult. With each student being allowed 8 guests, that will be over 2,500 people packed into the small gym. People will be uncomfortable and barely have space to maneuver. Covid is also still an issue. With the new mask mandate, most people will likely not wear a mask. There will be approximately 2,500 people without masks in a compact area. Being outside at the football field will allow more space to be spread out. 

Yes there will be a streaming option as well, but most family members would like to see their graduate(s) in person. We students have worked rigorously over 4 years, we deserve to have our families there to celebrate and support us. Watching your graduate over a screen is not the same as being able to physically see them. 

The football field is quite literally Richwoods property, upper-admin should see no issue with graduation being held there. The only issue that should permit this is the weather. Many graduates have received invitations ordered through the school, and they state that graduation would be held outside. This may be an error, but if this was the original plan why is it not contingent with the current plans?

There are graduates with relatives coming from far and wide. Graduates should not have to decide between a sibling or a close cousin, when it comes to choosing for these 8 tickets.

We are simply asking for Graduation to be held outside at the football field. 8 tickets may seem like a lot, but it is not when you have parents, siblings, grandparents, etc. to take into account.