Due to the recent outbreak of COVID-19, schools across the country have transitioned to distant and online learning as a precautionary measure against the continued spread of COVID-19. As a further precautionary measure, there has been talk about Minneapolis Public Schools cancelling all commencement ceremonies for the class of 2020. While we understand the decision to cancel commencement as a priority for the safety and wellbeing of students and their families, we urge district leaders to re-consider this decision if made. 

We are petitioning district leaders to reschedule/postpone commencement ceremonies until a time when the threat of COVID-19 is no longer active. Commencement marks the celebration of an important achievement as a scholar. Students have spent years working tirelessly to gain their diploma and deserve the opportunity to walk across that stage and receive recognition for their time, effort and energy. For many student’s commencement marks the celebration of more than just academic achievement. The cancellation of graduation ceremonies could prove devastating because of what that walk across the stage represents. If graduation ceremonies are cancelled, we once again urge district leaders to reconsider the decision and instead call on Minneapolis Public Schools to reschedule/postpone graduation at a time when the threat of COVID-19 is no longer a threat. Our goal is 1,000 signatures!