College, high school graduations set July 31

McCOOK, Neb. -- Both McCook Public Schools and McCook Community College graduations have tentatively been set for Friday, July 31.

Plans are now for MCC ceremonies to begin at 10 a.m., followed by North Platte at 3 p.m.

McCook Public Schools graduation ceremonies are tentatively set for 6 p.m. Friday, July 31 at the Graff Event Center. MHS post-graduate prom is set for the following day, Saturday, Aug. 1, at the MHS campus, with time to be announced later.

“It is our desire to celebrate our students’ educational accomplishments, and we are hopeful that this late summer date will enable us to do just that,” said MPCC President Ryan Purdy. “These plans may change if the Directed Health Measure currently in effect is extended beyond our rescheduled date.”

MPCC typically hosts commencement in May of each year, however, several instructional programs continue into late summer. Purdy said moving commencement to July will allow students in those programs to finish their summer schedules while also allowing students planning to transfer to other institutions an opportunity to attend the celebration.

If July McCook High School graduation plans cannot be implemented, additional plans well be developed as appropriate, said Jeff Gross, MHS principal, in a press release.

As several graduates have commitments to leave for military service training, staff is also working on additional plans for a graduation recognition for those students prior to their leave.

Circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic are rapidly changing and the district needs to remain flexible, Gross said in the press release. “We are working on plans to best fit the responses and needs of the community as a whole.”

Gross said McCook Public Schools understand the importance of graduation and the ability to continue commencement is not being taken lightly.

“We understand and value the importance of this milestone for students and their families, and we will continue to do all that we can to make it a reality while prioritizing the health and safety of all involved.”

Commencement for MHS seniors was originally scheduled for Sunday, May 17.

Per the current Directive Health Measure from the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, gatherings of more than 10 people are prohibited until at least April 30.

McCook Public Schools were first closed on March 16 and will remain closed until the end of the school year.

More information about the college’s response to the pandemic can be found online at mpcc.edu.