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In photos: Modified, yet traditional graduation gives Penticton graduates a sense of normalcy

Students around Penticton take part in pre-recorded graduation ceremonies

The Class of 2020 is celebrating graduation a little differently.

Pictured above, Penticton Secondary School 2020 graduate, Aaron Carley turns the tassel on his graduation cap before crossing the stage at the South Okanagan Events Centre, Monday, June 1.

While strict COVID-19 safety precautions were in place, grads were still able to feel some sense of normalcy as the SEOC continued its role as the traditional venue to host the event.

The students were presented their Dogwood Diploma certificates of graduation in groups of 10.

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In addition to the classes being split into multiple groups, over several days, and spaced 45 minutes apart, each graduate is only allowed a handful of audience members.

Audience members are directed through a planned one-direction route, from the front entrance of the SOEC, through the rink, and out a side exit, to ensure no cross-over of traffic between groups.

Videographers filming the walkup will edit each group together, and include a voice-over for awards and bursaries, to simulate a traditional graduation ceremony.

Meanwhile, Princess Margaret Secondary School will host its own pre-recorded graduation ceremony at the school.

On the waterfront, graduates could be seen taking portraits in their graduation gowns. Some, more traditional than others.

One student could be seen in a 3M respirator.

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Phil McLachlan

About the Author: Phil McLachlan

Phil McLachlan is the editor at the Penticton Western News. He served as the reporter, and eventually editor of The Free Press newspaper in Fernie.
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