NYC Schools will host a city-wide virtual graduation for high school seniors

Students are being deprived of an important academic milestone. 

Although high school seniors won't be able to enjoy a typical graduation ceremony for the 2019-2020 school year, Mayor Bill de Blasio did promise a virtual city-wide celebration for NYC schools during his April 28 press conference. 

"We're going to be there for you, and we need to celebrate you," he said. "This disruption has been so intense, but that does not take away our belief in you and our sense of the human moment." 

Although specific details have yet to be revealed, Mayor de Blasio said there will be a virtual ceremony with notable NYC school alumni. After all, the students are "the future of New York City."

BREAKING: @NYCMayor announces new grading policies for @NYCSchools during the COVID-19 crisis.

Tune in now: https://t.co/pLDGe14WRK

— City of New York (@nycgov) April 28, 2020

Before the celebration takes place, however, parents and students need to familiarize themselves with graduation requirements. The grading system remains the same for high schoolers, though underclassmen will be evaluated based on a new system. In New York State, students can earn one of three diplomas: a Regents diploma, an advanced Regents diploma and a local diploma. According to the NYC DOE: "To earn a diploma, students must earn specific course credits and pass specific Regents exams."

Parents: If you believe your seniors are not on track, you're asked to get in touch with guidance counselors immediately. In the meantime, make sure remote learning surveys are complete by May 1 and request an iPad here if your child needs one. 

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