FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WFFT) — Even though the largest school district in Indiana will not have in-person graduation ceremonies, there is an alternative option.
After much consideration, officials with Fort Wayne Community Schools said the district has determined the traditional graduation ceremonies will not be able to take place for the Class of 2020.
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Wayne High School

South Side High School
FWCS will instead honor the graduates with the production of virtual commencement ceremonies using pictures of each of the members of the Class of 2020.
“After exploring numerous options to make an in-person ceremony possible, we have come to the conclusion for the safety of our students, parents and staff, that we will not be able to celebrate in person,” Superintendent Wendy Robinson said. “This decision is heartbreaking for us and our 2,070 seniors.”
FWCS says high schools will distribute caps, gowns and other graduation materials over the next two weeks according to the following schedule.
Students will receive additional information on what time they should attend the pick-up at school to stagger arrivals.
Seniors can pick up their materials at assigned times from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.:
• Tuesday, May 12, South Side High School
• Thursday, May 14, Snider High School
• Friday, May 15, Northrop High School
• Tuesday, May 19, Wayne High School
• Wednesday, May 20, North Side High School
During the material pick-up, all seniors will receive a yard sign indicating they are apart of the Class of 2020 with their high school logo, as well as a cap and gown.
A professional photographer will be present to take individual pictures of the seniors for the virtual graduation.
Diplomas and awards will be given to seniors in a drive-through event to take place on the schools’ already scheduled graduation dates June 4-6.
“Nothing can replace the milestones missed by these seniors, but we hope our graduates can make their own special memories and know that we are thinking of them during this time,” Robinson said. “We know they will go on to become successful in their future endeavors, and this experience will only make them stronger.”
The district says details are still being finalized.