The “new normal” brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic inspired schools to get creative for the Class of 2020 graduation ceremonies. From virtual events to drive-through celebrations and marching bands, SABIS^® schools around the network found safe ways to make sure graduates marked this momentous occasion in their lives.

At the International Academy of Flint in Michigan (IAF), U.S., thirty-three seniors participated in a graduation parade that was led by a police and firetruck escort that wound its way from IAF to the Flint Institute of Arts where the school’s drum team, well-wishers, board, and staff members were waiting for them. Upon arrival, the graduates got out of their vehicles – with masks on – and walked up to a red carpet where they were presented with their diplomas.

In Frankfurt, Germany, SABIS^®-operated school ISF International School Frankfurt Rhein-Main, held its first-ever live streamed graduation ceremony on June 13, 2020.  With the local authorities only allowing a maximum of 100 participants per event due to COVID-19 restrictions, the school decided to organize a graduation ceremony on campus for its 91 graduates, respecting social distancing rules, and live stream the entire ceremony to families and friends who were watching from home.

SABIS^® schools in Kurdistan, chose to surprise their graduates with a surprise cap and gown drop-off at their homes, accompanied by a marching band!

In some regions, schools have postponed their graduation celebrations to the end of summer. See more of our creative graduation celebrations from across the network by following us on Facebook and Twitter.