Wellington Heights plans in-person commencement

MOUNT FOREST – Staff at Wellington Heights Secondary School are hard at work arranging for a memorable and safe in-person commencement ceremony on Oct. 15.

Beginning at 4pm, this year’s ceremony will have a different look from a traditional year, but staff are aiming to celebrate their graduates in an exciting and memorable way.

Graduates need to register for the commencement by calling the school at 519-323-3420 ext. 230 to book a time for their small group.

All graduates and no more than two family members are permitted to attend, as per public health guidance. All attendees, including grads, need to show proof of full vaccination to enter the school building.

Proof of vaccination can be emailed in advance to office coordinator Davina Campbell at: davina.campbell@ugdsb.on.ca.

In small groups consisting of no more than three people, graduates and their family members can walk through various stations in the school where they can have photos taken, receive congratulations and diplomas and any awards.

Photo booths will be set up with decorations for personal photos with phones or cameras brought along.

Outdoor option

For those who aren’t or cannot be vaccinated, an alternative outdoor station will be available to ensure all are accommodated and celebrated.

Graduates who cannot attend in-person but wish to watch diplomas being distributed can join virtually by contacting the school for a Google Meeting link.

Curbside pickup of diplomas and awards can be arranged for those unable to attend between Oct. 18 and 29 from 9am to 4pm by calling the school.

Video messages

Staff are planning to create a video for grads with messages from Upper Grand District School Board administrators, class valedictorian Marcus MacRobbie, vice principal Kevin Taylor, and principal Brent Bloch.

Specific information about public health guidelines that need to be followed has been shared with grads and families on the school’s website at www.ugdsb.ca/whss. Any changes or additional information leading up to the ceremony will be posted on the website.