SW High School will go ahead with Commencement May 17

South Winneshiek High School is planning on holding commencement, Sunday, May 17, at 1 p.m., as originally scheduled, however it will be at the high school football field.  

Students will be placed 10-feet apart on the football field.  Only the senior parents will be allowed to attend.  They will be socially distanced in the grandstands on the home side of the football field.  

Superintendent Kris Einck and Connie Euans will be on the track with a podium directing the program.  Board members can attend and be spaced to follow the social distancing guidelines.  The commencement program will be recorded and put on the school website and social media for people to view.

“I will be closely monitoring the weather forecast to arrange for a backup plan in case of inclement weather.  We will make a decision about postponing if necessary once we get closer to the day of the event,” Einck said.

After the commencement program there will be a parade, with the seniors, through each of the four communities in the District.  Einck is currently working with the local police department, Winneshiek County Sheriff's Department, and the Calmar and Ossian Fire Departments.

“To make sure I am following my due diligence and ensuring we are not putting anyone at risk I have spoken with both Sean Synder, Director of the Winneshiek County Emergency Management and Dan Marx, Winneshiek County Sheriff to receive their guidance and permission.  They both have given me the green light.  Sean also spoke with the Winneshiek County Health Department, and they gave us the go ahead,” Einck reported.