The class of 2020 will graduate at the Agricultural Society fairgrounds this summer, pending approvals from health authorities.
The Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School class of 2020 will graduate at the Agricultural Society fairgrounds this summer, pedning final approvals from town health authorities.
West Tisbury selectmen approved the use of the property at their meeting on Wednesday.
June 28 and July 26 are being set aside as possible dates for the ceremony, which is expected to be held “drive-in” style, where graduates stay in their cars. Attendance will likely be limited to students, immediate family and high school faculty, according to a proposal drafted by high school leaders and endorsed by the Agricultural Society.
Use of the fairgrounds and other safety issues are still pending final approval from the town board of health. And selectmen said their own approval was contingent on this being a one-time, emergency action, making it clear that it would not become tradition.
By long Island tradition, high school graduation is held at the Oak Bluffs Tabernacle, preceded by a series of school-sponsored community events that celebrate the graduates and their achievements, including honors night, class night and the evening of the arts. The prom is sponsored by the junior class, but is considered a prelude to graduation festivities.
This year the pandemic has disrupted all these activities.
“The high school seniors have been through quite a lot this year, as we all have,” Kristina West, executive director of the Agricultural Society, told the selectmen Wednesday. “We would like to offer the grounds so they can have something special for their graduation.”
Use of the conservation-restricted fairgrounds for non-agricultural purposes has been a fraught subject in recent years. Citing the selectmen’s decision last week to allow the farmers’ market to use the fairgrounds this summer, selectman Jeffery (Skipper) Manter 3rd noted his concern, but voted to allow the use.
“I understand the community event,” Mr. Manter said.
“I think this is an extraordinary condition,” said selectman Kent Healy. “I think the proposal makes strong sense. I think we could do it in a reasonable way. So I am in favor of it.”
Graduating seniors who attended the meeting by videoconference thanked the selectmen.
“The health of our community still to us remains paramount,” said senior Jack Holmes. “We are willing to do anything we can to follow health guidelines and do whatever is to make graduation happen at the Ag hall.”
Class president Alexandra Rego added her appreciation. “I just wanted to extended my gratitude to you all on behalf of the class of 2020,” she said. “It is very much appreciated.”
Comments
I am one of the senior class
Matt Malowski Oak BluffsI am one of the senior class advisors and counselors at the MVRHS. Just to clarify some information. The MVRHS Class of 2020, as well as the faculty and parents, are holding hope that the Tabernacle will continue to be where graduation is held. The Ag Hall is Plan B and we appreciate their support and willingness, as well as the Town of WT, and the abutters to the Ag Hall, to go above and beyond for the students. Our current plan is to host graduation at the Tabernacle. If that is not permitted, the Ag Hall will be our backup plan.
THere are other kids -- from
islandgirlTHere are other kids -- from the Charter School, home schooled, kids who go to schools off-island who also deserve to have some festivities. I hope that EVERY island kid will be asked to participate. It won't add a lot of people to the roster but in the interest of fostering all-island anc community spirit, ask ALL KIDS WHO ARE GRADUATING this year to participate. Maybe there should even be a subset of 8th graders as well. Thanks.
What a great idea! The
Alan Oak BluffsWhat a great idea! The Martha's Vineyard community has once again demonstrated resilience and creativity. With the MVCMA Tabernacle located in the middle of the busiest summer down island town and in the very heart of a densely populated private community, the long tradition of holding graduation there is completely illogical. Furthermore, it would send the wrong message to the young people we hope will become responsible citizens. Most off island communities have canceled graduations entirely and are relying on lawn signs, drive-by events, and the creativity of virtual experiences. Entertainers, athletes, celebrities, and, yes, even politicians are participating in online events to help the situation. However, our island has gone an extra step. The safe location of the Agricultural Fairgrounds is a wonderful alternative in these most difficult times. While the challenges of this pandemic have been very difficult for all of us, it has provided us with the realization that we should no longer take things for granted and that we need to temper our sense of entitlement. So, kudos to our Island Community and congratulations to the Class of 2020.
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