Back on March 13 Governor Ralph Northam announced that as part of the state’s closure of non-essential businesses due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all public and private schools would be closed as well. This meant that seniors who were looking forward to graduating in June would not experience that special moment of walking the stage to receive their diploma. Naturally disappointed by the decision, several students across Prince William County petitioned the school board to have their opportunity to hold a ceremony last month.

It appears as if they are going to get their wish.

On Wednesday May 6, the Prince William County School Board will hold an emergency session to allow each of the 12 high schools to host a graduation ceremony during the first week of August. There are parameters in place to hold the ceremony:

-No audience members will be in attendance

-Graduates must be at least six feet apart

-The ceremonies will take place in the respective football stadium of each school

So how to the students and parents taking the news? We spoke with a few students and parents to get their reaction.

One Woodbridge Senior High student was excited to hear the news when it broke this morning. “I’m so happy,” they said.

When asked if the restrictions will be an issue, another student said to the PW Perspective, “We’re all just concerned about how the being six feet apart will be and if our parents are allowed to watch.”

“But we’re very excited for the opportunity we worked so hard for.”

As for the parents themselves, one said to us, “Even though it’s in August, better for them to have something else than nothing at all.”

“They deserve the opportunity to walk the stage. So happy for them.”

It will be a ceremony that the students and, everyone else, will never forget.