TOWSON, MD—At its May 5 meeting, the Board of Education of Baltimore County voted to approve a contract with the company Herff Jones to provide virtual graduation ceremonies for all Baltimore County Public Schools high schools.

“This was a difficult decision for all of us,” said Board Chair Kathleen Causey. “We have heard from students and parents that what they want is an in-person graduation. We want that for them, too, but in the midst of this pandemic, for the safety of everyone, that is simply not possible. These virtual graduations will still provide opportunities to recognize students individually and to celebrate online together. In fact, the degree of personalization will be even higher than a standard graduation.”

“If it becomes possible, perhaps this summer, to host in-person celebrations, we want to make that happen,” said Board Vice Chair Julie Henn. “We are committed to honoring our seniors for their hard work and accomplishments in whatever ways we can. We recognize the tremendous disappointment our seniors and their families are feeling right now. But we also know that our graduates will remain connected to one another and to their extended BCPS family and that we will cheer and celebrate their successes – past, present, and future long beyond our current circumstances.”

Once plans are finalized, the revised graduation schedule will be announced.