Graduation 2010

Graduation is INDSIDE this year at SHS...why?

This year, the Sparta Board of Education has decided to have graduation inside the school, versus outside at the football field.

During an interview with Sam Russ, principal of Sparta High School, said reasons are unclear as to why graduation was inside, but he did say it could be lack of funds. It costs the board more money to set up for graduation in two places than it does in just one.

In years past, the school board has decided to set up graduation both outside and inside, the latter being an option if the weather permitted a need for graduation to move inside.

Many issues have been brought up by both parents and students alike. One of the concerns is that there will be a limit as to how many people can attend. " In years past, the number of people allowed per family was 4-6," Russ said.

Another problem with graduation being inside is the fact that it's in the Alton Ask Gymnasium. It is suitable for the amount of people, but the heat builds up quickly, making viewing the ceremony very uncomfortable.

Many parents have strongly voiced their opinions. Most of them have been angry that they are outside, mainly over the concern that the people who want to attend graduation outnumber the amount of people who are allowed to attend.

Students have also been disappointed because they feel that they are missing out on the experience of having an outdoors graduation.

If students and parents wanted to voice their opinions about graduation, they could attend a school board meeting to talk about it. What is important to remember is that they must be respectful toward the board members.