A sad memory of ceremony delayed

Due to the pandemic, District 211 is exploring the rescheduling of live graduations to sometime later this summer. Permit me to share the following with our wonderful graduating seniors: I sympathize. You may find that postponed graduations, while nice, won't be quite the same. The pomp, circumstances, speeches, etc., while all there, just will not create the same thrill, the same excitement. Please rest assured that over time, your lives will move on, happier days lie ahead, memories inevitably fade, but this current series of events will always be a bit of a sad memory.

I speak from experience. In 1970 (yes, 50 years ago next month), it was not my high school but college graduation that was abruptly canceled and subsequently rescheduled in August. And it was not a pandemic that caused all colleges in my state to postpone graduations. No. My graduation was suspended because the Ohio National Guard summarily executed four innocent, peace-loving students at Kent State University.

May each of you find peace and much success as you continue your life's journey.

Ron Coppel

Schaumburg