COVID-19

Kalamazoo seniors graduate … finally

After multiple changed plans and postponements, Kalamazoo's high school graduations were held this week.
A man in a black gown and a mask hands a diploma to a young man with a gown, mask, and graduation cap as he walks across a stage.
Loy Norrix High School principal Chris Aguinaga hands a diploma to a graduating senior. Loy Norrix held its graduation ceremony outdoors on August 5, 2020.

by

There were caps and gowns. People gave speeches. Pomp and Circumstance played. But 2020’s graduation ceremonies were far from normal for Kalamazoo Public Schools’ seniors.

KPS’s three high schools held graduation ceremonies on three consecutive nights: Phoenix High School on Tuesday, Loy Norrix High School on Wednesday, and Kalamazoo Central High School on Thursday. The events were originally set to be held online-only until parents complained and the district relented.

A young woman in a white gown and graduation cap stands in front of a microphone.
Senior Rahya Kelley speaks during the graduation ceremony for Kalamazoo Central High School on August 6, 2020.

The ceremonies were held outdoors to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Students were only allowed to invite five guests who were required to wear masks and social distance.

The graduations come just a few weeks before school is set to begin for the 2020-2021 school year. KPS, along with many other districts, have decided to hold the first 12 weeks of classes online-only in order to keep students and staff safe from the coronavirus.

Sign up for our daily newsletter

A weekday morning email roundup of Kalamazoo stories and events.

Independent journalism is essential to a healthy democracy. Make a donation today.

Read more

KDPS Chief Vernon Coakley posing in his police uniform

KDPS chief loses misconduct review, wins retirement deal

December 30, 2022
Loot Energy founder Jon Elms laughs while holding a can of Loot Energy while sitting on couch with an unnamed woman.

From the gym to gaming to a business idea

February 23, 2023

Latest News

Nabe Shin stands with her arms outstretched, showing off her wares at the Kalamazoo Farmers Market. In front of her are various plants with signs saying what they are, including: fiddle heads, Japanese knotweed, mushrooms, and wild ramp.

‘My best teacher’
Yaimari Gonzales-Santos spars with a teenage girl in a gym. They are wearing head gear and boxing gloves.

The big fight