Metro Schools planning in-person graduation ceremony for summer

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Metro Nashville Public Schools say they’re working on a plan to allow seniors to celebrate graduation in spite of the COVID-19 pandemic.

MNPS Director Dr. Adrienne Battle provided an update Thursday morning during Metro’s coronavirus briefing, saying the district is working with community partners on a virtual gradation that will allow the city to celebrate this year’s graduates. She said they’re planning an in-person graduation ceremony this summer to give students a more traditional experience.

“I know a lot of [students] have been planning their graduation ceremonies all year and that can’t happen now because of the global pandemic,” Battle said. “However, we want to give them the best, most meaningful ceremonies possible while putting everyone’s safety first.”

Battle acknowledged the uncertainty of the situation and said they’re working to design a plan if it can be done safely.

The district is also making plans for the summer and 2020-21 school year. Battle said they will release more details on that soon.

Battle said the board is in the process of crafting an operating budget proposal for the next fiscal year, and they’re exploring ways to use the CARES Act to keep school in session.