Ames High Commencement Save the Date(s)

As a district, we are determined to find a way for the Class of 2020 to celebrate its graduation in person. While some districts are opting now to schedule virtual ceremonies, the feedback we have heard from students and families indicates that there continues to be a strong desire to have the celebration in person even if it is delayed.

While it will not be possible to have graduation on May 24 as scheduled, we are hopeful that as conditions evolve in the months ahead there may be some easing of restrictions on public gatherings that would allow us to hold a graduation ceremony. To assist families in planning, we have identified several dates that will serve as our target date, as well as back up dates in the event that conditions are not to the point where we can hold a large gathering. We ask that graduates and families please hold both of these dates in their calendar.

Commencement Date(s)

Option 1: In-person ceremony at Hilton Coliseum (1:00 p.m.)

• Sunday, June 21st
• Saturday, July 11th

Holding the commencement ceremony on one of these dates is our best option to hold a traditional commencement ceremony. Our intention is to plan for the first date while having the second date as a back up if conditions are not to the point where we can hold a large ceremony. These dates were selected based on the availability of Hilton Coliseum. 

Option 2: In-person, outdoor ceremony at Ames High Stadium 

• Saturday, July 25th
• Sunday, July 26th (rain date)

If the first two dates at Hilton Coliseum do not work, we will plan to hold commencement at Ames High football stadium. As an outdoor venue, the second date will serve as a weather contingency option. 

Option 3: Virtual Ceremony

If public gathering conditions do not allow us to celebrate our seniors through the first two options, we will move to a virtual ceremony. 

As a District, we will continue to develop and communicate the logistics around each plan, starting with Option 1 as our top priority. As we look to the months ahead, student and staff safety will continue to be at the forefront of our decision making. We remain hopeful that one of our selected graduation dates will be possible despite the constantly evolving coronavirus situation. At the same time, we will continue to monitor current data and projections. Should conditions significantly change or further prevent gatherings during our established dates, we will discuss alternate virtual options for graduation at that time. Thank you again to the senior class who has continually demonstrated their Ames High Pride during this unprecedented time.