CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Chicago Public Schools officials are relaxing the rules surrounding certain types of in-person graduation ceremonies.
Traditional graduation ceremonies are still off the table, but they don’t necessarily have to be virtual either, according to new guidance released Wednesday by Chicago Public Schools.
After previously indicating only virtual ceremonies would be allowed, CPS officials now say drive-through, drive-up, or home visits are okay, as long as everyone adheres to social distancing guidelines.
Officials said they change the graduation ceremony rules, because Illinois on track to enter Phase 3 of Governor Pritzker's Restore Illinois plan on May 29.
Anyone getting out of their car during a drive-through ceremony must wear a face mask.
“These events will require significant planning — including precise scheduling, traffic control, and school safety personnel — and may be appropriate for small to medium-sized graduating classes in less trafficked areas,” CPS said Wednesday. “Principals will need to carefully evaluate this option to determine if it is appropriate for their school community.”
Drive-through or drive-up ceremonies can take place at drive-in movie theaters, school parking lots, or stadium parking Schools may have to hold multiple ceremonies if they have a large graduating class. No restroom access, refreshments or congregating will be allowed, according to the state.
Virtual ceremonies can still be held on Google Meet or Zoom.
CPS has 25,000 high school seniors, 26,000 eighth graders, and another 24,000 kindergartners enrolled this year.