New Bedford High School announces dates for Class of 2020 events

New Bedford High School has announced dates for virtual and traditional ceremonies for the Class of 2020. A Virtual Commencement Ceremony will stream on Thursday, June 18, 2020 – the date also marks the final day of the school year. The virtual ceremony will include city and school officials, student speakers, music and recognition of achievements.

In addition, a traditional Graduation Ceremony at Walsh Field is being planned for Thursday, August 13, 2020 at 7:00 p.m., said Headmaster Bernadette Coelho. “There’s no question how heartbreaking and disappointing this has been for the Class of 2020 and not how anyone expected their culminating semester to unfold. The entire faculty and staff is, to the best of our ability, committed to providing our graduates with a memorable and fitting send-off, honoring and celebrating their incredible accomplishments.”

Superintendent Thomas Anderson stated “I share in the disappointment that this situation has caused for all students, but especially for our seniors. I wholeheartedly support Ms. Coelho’s efforts in doing what is takes to make the 2020 ceremony more special than ever as we celebrate the contributions and the legacy of this graduating class.”

A Virtual Awards Night Ceremony will be held during the week of June 15 – the date and time to be announced shortly.

In advance of these ceremonies, the high school will issue a schedule for students to pick up their caps and gowns.

Other milestone events are also planned to be rescheduled; the Senior Prom and the National Honor Society Induction Ceremony are expected to be held in the fall of 2020, the dates and times to be announced. The August 13 event is subject to approval for assembly by municipal and health authorities.