Last year’s high school graduations in Washington Parish were radically changed because of the COVID situation. High schools did the best they could, but for all practical purposes none of the 2020 seniors enjoyed a traditional graduation.
The graduations for the Class of 2021 taking place soon will veer back toward a much more normal ceremony. COVID case numbers have greatly decreased and vaccinations are widely available, so school officials are pleased that the 2021 graduations will be closer to normal. Some restrictions will still be in place. Masks will be required for everyone. Attendance will be limited. At the Franklinton High School graduation on May 6, both sides of the football stadium --- home and visitor --- will be used to allow for social distancing. The other high schools in the parish will also have plans in place for social distancing.
The first graduation to take place will be at Bowling Green School on Friday, April 30. The ceremony begins at 6 PM in the main gym.
Principal Beverly Young at Bowling Green commented, "We are excited that this is our 49th commencement ceremony. We have 42 seniors that will be participating in the graduation ceremony. Students are allotted six reserve seats for their parents and family, and there will also be available seating in the bleachers. We are asking only family and close friends to attend the ceremony so that we will be in compliance with COVID regulations. This is an exciting time for our young people, and we congratulate them and wish them the best with all their endeavors."
Here’s the schedule for the 2021 high school graduations in Washington Parish:
--Friday, April 30 Bowling Green School, 6 p.m.
--Thursday, May 6 Franklinton High, 7:00 p.m.
--Friday, May 7 Pine High, 7:30 p.m.
--Saturday, May 8 Mt. Hermon School, 10:00 a.m.
--Saturday, May 8 Varnado High, 7:30 p.m.
--Thursday, May 13 Bogalusa High School 7 p.m.
--Thursday May 13, Ben's Ford Christian School 7 p.m.
The annual Graduation Edition of The Era-Leader will appear on May 5. It will contain color photos of all Washington Parish graduates.
