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CMS Will Poll Seniors On Alternative Graduation Options

Taylor Robinson

Charlotte-Mecklenburg seniors and parents will be polled on their preferences for graduation options next week, Deputy Superintendent Matt Hayes said Friday.

Hayes says CMS hasn't yet canceled the traditional graduation schedule, but that can only happen if state and local guidelines for coronavirus safety allow it. Meanwhile, a task force of students, parents, principals and central office staff met three times in the past week to discuss options.

CMS virtual news conference.

"Nothing is off the table at this time," Hayes said at an online news conference Friday. He said suggestions have included homeroom graduations, ceremonies held on football fields or at the Panthers stadium, virtual ceremonies or delayed gatherings.

CMS began strategizing after Gov. Roy Cooper announced a week ago that students won't return to North Carolina public schools this year. Hayes said a preliminary survey seeking ideas for graduation got more than 800 entries in three days. 

CMS graduates almost 10,000 students a year. Seniors can expect the survey via the district's Connect-Ed messaging system at the end of next week, Hayes said.

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Ann Doss Helms has covered education in the Charlotte area for over 20 years, first at The Charlotte Observer and then at WFAE. Reach her at ahelms@wfae.org or 704-926-3859.