Germantown High School holds in-person graduation with health measures in place

GERMANTOWN, Wis. (CBS 58) -- It’s a moment that almost didn’t happen, but the Germantown High School Class of 2020 got to walk across the stage.

“I think we will be a class that really remembers our high school years and our senior year a lot more than others," Senior and Student Council President Avi Bhavsar said.

The school board canceled its original drive-thru ceremony, after overwhelming public support for an in-person event.

“What happened when they walked out on March 13 to not return, I know the board wanted to do something for the class, as did every teacher and administrator," Principal Joel Farren said.

Because of COVID-19, guest entrances were split by alphabetical order, masks were encouraged and handshaking was not advised.

Outdoor field capacity was capped at 50%, and student seating was spaced six-feet apart.

“Just being here, in general, and being able to share this experience with my class is already something that I think I appreciate a lot," Senior and Valedictorian Zaneta Luo said.

The graduation was also streamed online, but one father said this moment was just too special to be virtual.

“So, I think it’s very important that we have something like this where we can all be together and watch them as they step into adulthood," parent Kris Volkman said.

Guests were required to fill out contact tracing forms before entering the ceremony.

They could do so beforehand, or were asked to fill them out on site.