Scott Williams, swilliams@wolfrivermedia.com
Shawano eighth-graders will get their graduation ceremony after all.
Faced with parent objections, school officials have agreed to reinstate a graduation ceremony where family members can attend and take pictures.
Officials had previously said such an event would be impossible because of construction starting soon at Shawano Community Middle School.
Some administrators also argued that eighth-grade graduation had become overblown with formal wear and limousines, distracting from the ultimate student objective of completing high school.
When parents complained that eighth-graders were being shortchanged, officials worked out a compromise for an event to honor those kids. About 165 students are expected to complete eighth grade this year.
Middle school Principal Mary Kramer said a reconstructed event will be held June 2 in the Shawano Community High School auditorium, where each graduate will receive a certificate.
There will be no procession or playing of “Pomp and Circumstance.” Each family will receive three tickets to attend the event and will be permitted to take photos immediately after. Overflow seating will be made available in another part of the high school.
The ceremony will be followed by a traditional dinner and dance for the graduating students.
“We are going to have a basic presentation,” Kramer said.
Eighth-grade graduation — officially called a “promotion” event so that students remain focused on completing high school — previously was held at the middle school.
With the middle school scheduled for major renovation work starting this spring, officials had moved the graduation ceremony to the high school and had announced plans for a scaled-down event to which family members would not be invited. When parents objected, officials agreed to reconsider.
Parents now are voicing support for the compromise plan.
Parent Jennifer Moses, whose son is completing eighth grade, said she appreciates that administrators will recognize the milestone for students, even if space for families is limited.
“That sounds like a very reasonable and fair plan,” Moses said. “I think that’s more than reasonable.”
Amanda Haumann, who has twin sons graduating from middle school, said the planned ceremony is much improved from what was being considered a couple of months ago. Haumann said she understands why administrators are limiting family attendance.
“At least they’re doing something,” she said. “It’ll have to do.”