Shafter High seniors graduating on campus and in person

All of the students graduating this year at local schools will be able to walk across the stage watched in

person by their family and friends.

Shafter High Principal Russell Shipley made a You Tube video announcing the good news for the

Generals.

Earlier in the year, it was announced that Shafter High would be holding a graduation ceremony, but it

would be held at Frontier High School. The Shafter High football stadium is in the middle of a major

renovation and is not available.

With progress that has been made with covid-19 policies, it is possible for the Generals to graduate on

campus.

The ceremony will be held on June 9 at 7:30 p.m.

“We knew that if it was possible for us to graduate here at home, that we would do it,” said Shipley.

The news comes about a month after Shafter High School was opened for in-person instruction. The

seniors were sent back first in April, allowing them to complete their high school careers on campus.

It is estimated that about 34% of the students chose to return to in-person instruction, with the majority of

students and their families electing to finish the school year at a distance.

“I would rather finish the year distance learning,” student Alicia Pompa said. “Unless it is necessary

for me to come back in order to play softball, I am staying home.”

Similar sentiments echoed through the Shafter High community.

Richland Junior High is having similar results. The majority of students are choosing to finish the year

off-campus.

Like Shafter High School, the students and their families will be able to celebrate their graduation on

campus. Richland will be holding their graduation ceremony in May 29 at 9 a.m.