The DeKalb County High School graduating class of 2020 will not happen as scheduled on May 15 due to COVID-19, but a tentative date has been set for the commencement.

Director of Schools Patrick Cripps said Friday, June 19 has been set as a tentative date for the graduation but if COVID-19 restrictions are still in place, the commencement could be delayed again until Friday, July 17.

“I have some information from the state department and I hope the social distancing requirements are lifted before then (June 19) but they currently want us to keep the kids at least six feet apart and limit the amount of people coming in,” said Director Cripps.

School administrators are hoping to have the graduation in the same setting as always so that the graduates can celebrate together and with their families and friends.

“My goal is to have a normal graduation. I don’t want to do a drive through. I don’t want to do a walk down the street. I know some schools are bringing one kid up at a time where parents can be there watching them get their diploma and a video made. I don’t want to do that. I want it to be as normal for those students as possible and that is the goal of both myself and DCHS Principal Randy Jennings. We ask that parents and public be patient with us because until we know for sure we’re really playing this by ear,” said Director Cripps.

The DCHS graduation is typically held on a Friday night at 7 p.m. on the high school football field.