Celebrations of academic achievement will have to wait for elementary and secondary students in the Thames Valley district.
The Thames Valley District School Board announced on Wednesday that all Grade 8 and Grade 12 graduation and commencement ceremonies have been postponed for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Education Director Mark Fisher said due to continued uncertainty over when the government will lift restrictions on public gatherings, a decision had to be made.
"We recognize this is very disappointing news for students and families,” said Fisher in a news release. “But the safety and well-being of our students, families and staff remain our highest priority."
The school board said it intends to find "alternative ways" to recognize student accomplishments that are in line with current public health guidelines. Graduation and commencement ceremonies will be held if possible, the board added.
Each school will be communicating information to students and families as the situation develops and more information becomes available.
