We are working to collect ideas from across the nation of what schools and districts are considering and/or planning to celebrate our seniors. From AWSP collaboration with Jostens on a virtual graduation (AWSP/Jostens: The Show Will Go On!) to little things to make the senior's year a bit better, we are updating our 2020 Resources page daily.
Here are some of the ideas from our member schools, advisers, principals, and students:
Recognizing student involvement in activities, arts, academics, and athletics via social media and yard signs.
Have students submit their “Senior Stories” and thank yous to the school.
Using snail mail to send handwritten notes from staff to seniors (or all students).
Sometimes the power of a handwritten note is amazing. Schools have been doing this as part of the graduation event, but why not write/mail these notes to their students. Create an online list of graduates, have staff select a number of students (if the entire staff participates, this is usually 5-8 cards per staff member), develop (use) a school postcard, have staff write personal notes to their selected students, mail home (either by staff or bring back to school for addressing/mailing).
Gown up and Drop In!
Have students wear graduation regalia and join a virtual meeting (Google Meet, Zoom) where they can be recognized by school leaders and have their graduation conferred virtually.
Enlist student leaders to help with getting the word out to help make sure every senior and family is included in the celebration and has access to a video or computer to participate.
Drive-Through Graduation/Parade
Virtual Prom Live
Signing Day Celebrations
While this was originally designated for college signing, help celebrate the class of 2020 by creating a virtual signing day for post high school plans. Celebrate their next step of military, career, college or wherever their next steps in life. Really it doesn’t matter what school, pathway, job, or major students will choose. Signing Day is about the commitment to ongoing education and success!
Of course you can also join schools across the country on June 1 with a virtual College Signing Day party! Check out the College Signing Day toolkit for more information about the celebration and ideas on how you can participate.
We also have resources from our affiliates: