Class of 2021 Students and Parents:
As I shared in my February 12th communication, we are in the process of planning for various events/activities to recognize and celebrate our seniors. Our plans are evolving and I wanted to provide an update. Below is a list of our traditional senior activities along with an updated synopsis of where we are at in the planning process. Please know that as we plan and make decisions, safety will be our top priority. Safety mitigations change frequently based on various metrics and it is difficult to predict what safety mitigations will be in place in the coming months.
Graduation
The 2021 Commencement ceremony is being planned for the weekend of May 22-23. Due to the possible need to have multiple abbreviated ceremonies, we are targeting to have three to four ceremonies on Saturday, May 22nd, and two to three ceremonies on Sunday, May 23rd. These ceremonies will more than likely be broken down alphabetically and we anticipate holding them in the stadium on Glenbard East’s campus. Ultimately, we want to recognize our graduates in the most personal way possible while adhering to safety guidelines. More information will be forthcoming as plans are solidified. Regardless of what graduation looks like, all graduates will want their cap and gown. Please click here to order soon as we are nearing the point at which Jostens cannot guarantee delivery by the end of May.
Prom
Glenbard East’s Prom “History in the Making” will take place on Friday, May 14th. As I mentioned previously, hosting a traditional Prom poses numerous difficulties under the current safety mitigations. Eating food and dancing while following safety mitigations will be quite challenging, but we are currently developing plans for an on-campus event that will allow students to dress up, take pictures, and be with friends. This will be a Glenbard East senior only event.
Other Senior Celebrations
In collaboration with our Student Council, we will have a Senior Spirit Week, from March 22nd to March 26th. The week will consist of themed dress up days and prizes for engagement. Additionally, in early April we will have a Senior Swag Bag pickup. All seniors will have the opportunity to receive a yard sign, t-shirt, face mask, and a water bottle. More details will be shared soon.
Senior Celebration
Traditionally, we’ve celebrated our seniors on their last day of attendance by hosting a picnic style event on the football field. Discussions on the viability of this event with the safety mitigations that are currently in place are ongoing.
Senior Awards
Our senior academic awards night is tentatively scheduled for the evening of Thursday, May 6th. Being that this is an indoor event, we may need to modify how awards are presented. We will continue to assess our ability to hold large gatherings in the coming weeks/months.
Senior Athlete Recognition
Senior nights and senior recognition will be handled on a sport by sport basis, and head coaches will communicate details with parents and students.
Again, thank you for your patience and support as we work and plan to provide our seniors with the best possible experience in the coming weeks and months.
Sincerely,
