Collier high schools to host senior celebrations in lieu of proms

Collier schools are working with high schools and senior class leadership to develop celebrations in place of proms and other traditional end-of-year events. 

"None of our high schools will promote senior celebration events as ‘prom’ because that would imply dancing and the option to invite a guest from other grades or schools, both of which will not be a part of these senior celebrations," Chad Oliver, a spokesman for the district, wrote in an email.

The events, which are slated for later this month and early May, are being planned by principals, activities coordinators and student government in coordination with the district. 

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High school administrations have consulted student leadership about "the types of senior celebrations they wished to hold on their campuses," Oliver wrote.

High schools are still in the planning process for the events, but some have announced their themes, like Immokalee High School.

Seniors at that high school will be participating in a Field Day featuring a dunk tank, a photo booth, games, music and catered lunch.

The celebrations will follow COVID-19 safety guidelines in place on campus, including face coverings. Students will only be permitted to remove masks while eating. 

Dr. Rebekah Bernard, the president of the board of directors for the Collier County Medical Society, said decisions on events the school board made are "based on the best CDC guidance available to be able to have activities safely."

Bernard has represented the organization as part of the Collier County Public School system’s medical advisory team, Bernard wrote in an email. 

Graduations are set to be held on school campuses May 28. Seniors are only allowed two tickets for guests.

The ceremonies are taking place outside at each high school's athletic stadium. Lorenzo Walker Technical High School will host graduation at Paradise Coast Sports Park.

"It is important to note that the information provided above may change based on guidance from the Florida Department of Education, Florida Department of Health-Collier, and/or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention," the district wrote to the Class of 2021. 

Last year, Collier's traditional public high schools opted for virtual graduations due to concerns about COVID-19.

Rachel Fradette is an education reporter for the Naples Daily News. Follow her on Twitter: @Rachel_Fradette, email her at rfradette@gannett.com.

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