Patriot High School’s first graduation may have to be held inside June 13

This is the text of a letter from Patriot High School principal, Dr. Michael E. Bishop, about site alternatives for the high school’s first graduation tomorrow, Thursday, June 13.

When today’s seniors first entered our doors, it was as underclassmen, many of whom chose to make the change from another school.

Despite our long-held plans to celebrate their Patriot graduation on Thursday, in our stadium, the weather might demand other arrangements. We have crafted a “Plan B” and are even formulating “Plan C” to cope with whatever the weather will bring. And I know Patriot families can handle the change and celebrate in style.

We have been monitoring weather forecasts for the past week. Security Director John Lavely has been in contact with meteorologists from local news channels and the National Weather Service and has confirmed that weather conditions for Thursday, June 13 are expected to be severe. Forecasters say weather may include heavy rain, high winds, possible hail, and even the potential for tornado conditions late in the afternoon. Fortunately, the worst should be over by 6 p.m.

Consequently, we are moving the start time for the graduation ceremony for the Class of 2013 to 7:30 p.m. tomorrow evening. This is our “Plan B” and we will determine whether it will be implemented indoors or out by 10 a.m. tomorrow. This information will be posted to our web page as well as sent out electronically via Blackboard connect. 

If the weather permits us to remain outdoors, all existing arrangements will remain in place; simply add one hour to the start times for all scheduled activities. 

In the likely event we are forced indoors, please follow the revised schedule and plans below.

• Graduates should be dropped off at 6 p.m., proceeding to the auxiliary gym.

• The gymnasium and designated areas will open at 6:45 p.m. for families and visitors.

• Red tickets—senior families were issued seven red tickets to enter the gymnasium to view the ceremony.

• Blue tickets—visitors holding a blue ticket will be able to view the ceremony via closed circuit television in the auditorium and commons one. Other locations will be opened as needed.

• Handicap seating—prior to June 13, a red ticket was exchanged for a handicap accessible ticket. Handicap seating is available is available indoors. Only the individual   who requires this seating, plus one other person with a red ticket, will be allowed in the designated area. There is not room for entire families in the designated handicap area.

Even “Plan B” is subject to change in the unlikely event that forecasters determine dangerous weather conditions will persist after 6 p.m. Should that occur, we would be forced to move the graduation to Friday, June 14. If needed, an announcement of any further changes will be made on our Web site and through email on or about 5 p.m. tomorrow. Again, please be sure to check those locations for accurate information. 

With the community’s diligence and patience, the arrival, ceremony, and departure of our graduates, families, and visitors can and will be a rewarding, memorable experience. I thank you for your understanding and cooperation, as our Patriot seniors again demonstrate their ability to flourish amid change.


Respectfully, 

Michael E. Bishop, Ed.D.
Principal