South Dearborn Considering Graduation Options with Gym Renovations Ongoing

Student input will help guide the process.

(Aurora, Ind.) – South Dearborn High School graduation is trending towards taking place on Backman Field. 

A traditional graduation in the high school gymnasium is not possible this year with ongoing renovations and bleacher replacement. 

Last week, the school board entered discussion about the graduation site at their regularly scheduled meeting. At the meeting, Superintendent Eric Lows outlined what an outdoor graduation on the football field would look like, while also approaching the possibility of having graduation at the Lawrenceburg Event Center. 

Lows said a stage would be placed around the 50 yard line and chairs and bleachers would be utilized for students and attendees.

Some of the discussion surrounding a football field graduation included seating, parking, restrooms, and weather makeup dates.

Concerns include having the students walk down the big hill to the field, making sure the elderly and/or handicapped individuals have easier access to the field, having ample seating, and restrooms. 

Plans include having wheelchair seating on the track area, shuttle services to get attendees as close to the field as possible, bringing in additional bleachers from the soccer and softball fields, and ordering port-a-lets.   

None of the school board members were against having graduation at the football. However, South Dearborn's estimated 130 graduates will be asked for their input. 

Lows said a decision would likely come within two weeks of the school board meeting.