Grade 8 Graduation

Dear families of Grade 8 graduates,

While this is certainly not the way any of us envisioned this school year wrapping up we do want to assure you that we remain committed to recognizing and honouring our graduates. We have now been given direction from the HWDSB with respect to what celebrations may (and may not) include. Based on this information the Graduation committee has developed a plan, which will include a recorded virtual ceremony (accessible using a secure HWDSB platform), Awards, special messages celebrating our graduates and a slideshow. In addition, each student will receive a special commemorative keepsake card that will be sent out with an invitation to our virtual 2020 Graduation celebration. Thank you to our Home and School for also furnishing each of our graduates with a complimentary 8 x 10 copy of the graduating class composite. This, along with graduation certificates will be mailed to each graduate’s home. Staff will be inviting student contributions for this celebration in the coming weeks and our School Council chairs and Home and School President will also be consulting with our committee.

A number of individuals have reached out with suggestions (e.g., drive by parade, holding a ceremony at a family home, placing signs on lawns etc.). We appreciate the spirit in which these suggestions have been made – Balaclava is a generous community. We are required to follow the direction of the HWDSB and the law to mitigate risks (including safety and privacy) of all concerned. As parents and caregivers, you may of course, make your own decisions about these practices.

Not gathering together physically to honour our graduates does not mean graduation is any less meaningful. It simply means it will be different. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we navigate how best to proceed with recognizing this important milestone with our graduates. Should you have any immediate questions please contact your child’s teacher, or Ms. Rizzo. Please continue to monitor our school webpage and the tools for communication used by staff, as further details will be shared as they are confirmed.

Sincerely,

Ms. Rizzo

Principal