By Max Bowen-max.bowen@northstarreporter.com
With the North Attleborough High School’s Beaupre Field currently closed for repairs, the question was raised about where to hold the Class of 2021 graduation.
The field was closed in mid-April after damage was found to a dozen parts of the field. It’s believed that it was caused by the football team’s weightlifting program, which was moved to the field to meet COVID-19 protocols. The field is expected to be repaired within a couple of weeks, which would put the completion date close to that of the commencement.
NAHS Principal Peter Haviland said the ceremony is slated for June 4, and June 5 and 6 set as rain dates. COVID guidelines require that it be an outdoor ceremony. Guests will be limited to six people for each graduate, and each group will sit apart.
“We’re working with students for how the space will be used,” said Haviland at the May 3 School Committee meeting.
During the meeting the question was asked if Community Field—which has been used for graduations pre-COVID—could be used as a location for the ceremony. Haviland explained that due to social distancing requirements, the bleachers at Community Field would be of limited use. He said that 2,000 folding chairs have been ordered for the graduates and guests and the field space may not fit them all.
“Nothing is etched in stone,” said Haviland. “It seems that Beaupre is the most viable location at this point.”
On a related note, a Promotion Ceremony will be held on June 15, 16, or 17, to commemorate the eighth graders moving on to the high school. Principal Brianne Kelleher said that due to potential rainfall, a final date cannot be chosen yet. The eighth-grade class has 386 students, 130 more than the graduating seniors.
“Unfortunately, we will have to hold off making a decision due to the weather,” said Kelleher.
