July graduation event in the works

On a June 3 Zoom call, Union High School principal Mike Goforth released his plans to seniors for their 2019-20 graduation ceremony.

The prospective date for graduation is in the week of July 27-31. Goforth hopes to be able to honor students’ wishes and have a “traditional” graduation ceremony at Bullitt Park, but at this time is unable to confirm it.

Southwest Virginia is moving into phase two of reopening the state under COVID-19 concerns which limit gatherings to 50 people or less. Gov. Ralph Northam has not given a prospective date toward considering a more lenient phase three.

Goforth stated that on Monday, July 20, he will consider the orders and guidelines that are in place and determine the type of ceremony that will take place. If large gatherings are not allowed, the intention is to provide an individualized graduation experience for each graduate and immediate family.