The state Department of Education has released health and safety guidelines to allow for in-person school graduation ceremonies this year.
Commencement events must follow several rules, including voluntary student participation. Schools may consider providing a virtual option for those who don't wish to attend an in-person event.
Ceremonies must be held outdoors or in a venue with adequate ventilation. Third-party venues that comply with county social gathering rules are allowed.
All participants must provide proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 48 hours prior to the ceremony. If recovered from COVID-19 in the last 90 days, the participant must provide proof of the diagnosis to avoid the requirement for testing, the guidelines say.
Graduates will be allowed to bring a pre-set number of household members as guests — to be determined by each school based on capacity.
Masks must be worn at all times, the guidelines say.
“Graduations are such a special milestone for our students and families, especially in Hawaiʻi, and I know it has been difficult having modified ceremonies for the past two years,” Interim Superintendent Keith Hayashi said. “We look forward to providing our graduates with the ceremonies that they so deeply deserve while still maintaining the health and safety of our students and staff as a top priority.”
Graduation dates and other details will be announced in April.
