Boothbay Region High School seniors will not be moving on to the next chapters of their lives without a graduation celebration. Principal Tricia Campbell said despite not being able to carry out the traditional ceremonies, she and Dean of Students Allan Crocker have put together a program with the guidance office which aims to make a unique and special memory for the Class of 2020 while complying with state guidelines.

“We are currently working on a plan for seniors, along with up to four family members, to come into BRHS, in cap and gowns for the presentation of diploma and moving of tassel,” said Campbell.

The individual ceremonies will be scheduled during the week of May 18 and will be recorded along with the principal’s welcome, valedictorian and salutatorian speeches and superintendent’s address. BRHS is working with Boothbay Region TV to compile the clips into a full ceremony to distribute to families and air on June 5.

During the weeks leading up to graduation, the Boothbay region will begin to see signs and banners celebrating the Class of 2020, said Campbell. Boothbay Center will feature a banner and senior photo for every student, and homes and businesses will also be decorating their lawns with congratulatory items. Campbell said the procedure for distributing lawn signs will be shared with families when the signs arrive.

“We are also working to put together a drive-in movie event. ‛BRHS Class of 2020’ will be shown in the school parking lot for the senior class (one vehicle per family) on Graduation Day. We will have treats for students to enjoy in their car with family – in classic drive-in style,” said Campbell adding there are also plans to hold a senior parade through town.

The plans are aimed at meeting state restrictions and recommendations to keep safe: Assemblies of no more than 10 people will continue through May and no more than 50 through June. Campbell said even though we cannot know what July and August hold for recommendations, administrators are keeping their minds open to more celebrations.

Said Campbell, “We are so proud of the Class of 2020! … We want to do all that we can to make positive memories for our graduates … Thank you for all of your understanding, support and help!”

People or businesses willing to help with sign and banner costs should make checks payable to BRHS and send to: 236 Townsend Ave., Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538, attention: Tricia Campbell.