Midlands seniors mark socially distant milestone with drive-thru cap and gown pickup

Irmo High School seniors partook in a socially distant “parade” Wednesday to pick up their caps and gowns — ones they won’t get to wear at a traditional ceremony this year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

For four hours on April 22, students streamed in and out of the campus “drive-thru,” some in decorated vehicles. Staff and teachers waved to students who they haven’t seen in person in weeks, and might not see in person before they graduate.

Lexington-Richland 5 school district is hosting similar events for each of its high schools so student can have their caps and gowns, as well as other graduation gifts.

Schools are having to adapt to the pandemic in myriad ways, from e-learning to meal delivery and honoring students’ achievements from afar. At a Wednesday press conference, S.C. Gov. Henry McMaster and State Superintendent of Education Molly Spearman announced that schools would remain closed for the remainder of the school year, and students would continue virtual and at-home learning.

McMaster urged high schools nonetheless to make plans to celebrate graduation remotely. The governor said he would give districts “flexibility” on how exactly they choose to replace the typical cap and gown ceremonies.

With coronavirus causing school to be canceled until at least the end of the current school year, students, parents and educators have been suggesting ideas for what to do for seniors.

Isabella Cueto and Lucas Daprile contributed to this report.

This story was originally published April 22, 2020 at 4:43 PM.