Good news for graduating seniors! California just released new guidelines to host commencement ceremonies.
According to the California Department of Public Health, attendees and graduates will need to be 6-feet apart, which means handshaking and hugs "should not occur."
Guests will be limited to a household, need to sit 6-feet apart, and should be screened or self-screen for fever or coronavirus symptoms before heading to the celebration.
Everyone will be required to wear a mask, except speakers who must maintain a 6-feet distance from others.
Required modifications to be made at ceremonies, according to the state:
- All attendees, including school staff, performers, students and families are counted toward any occupancy capacity limit.
- If multiple ceremonies are planned for a single day, schools must allow for at least two hours between ceremonies to prevent mixing across attendees.
- Limit attendee groups to a household unit. People from the same household do not need to be six feet apart.
- Audience seating must be fixed or marked, with readily identifiable signs to indicate by section, row, and seat. Marked seats should clearly define space for individuals with appropriate space per person — no blanket reservations or group areas.
If you'd like read more about these new guidelines for the upcoming graduation ceremonies, check CDPH Guidance for Gatherings.