Graduation In The Heat – What a Dopey Idea

Temperatures in the mid 90s…heat index soaring over 100…people fainting, sweating, kids having to wear caps and gowns that attract the sun.

Brilliant idea…no?

Here are just a couple of things that happen when graduation ceremonies are held out in the heat.

According to this report:

Two North Bergen High School graduates fainted from the heat yesterday morning at the school's graduation ceremony at James J. Braddock North Hudson Park, officials said.
The students were treated by emergency medical technicians at the scene and were alert and responsive, township spokesman Philip Swibinski said.

The students were then taken to Palisades Medical Center as a precaution, Swibinski said.

The graduation ceremony began at 10 a.m. on the football field, with no shade to cool the graduates from the sun.

The Bergen Record reported that some guests at the graduation also fainted from the heat.

And while North Bergen’s plan of action didn’t go over well…do you think pushing ceremonies bak one hour….again, ONE HOUR, is going to make any difference?

According to this:

Due to a heat advisory in the area, Burlington Township High School has pushed back its graduation ceremonies by an hour.

Instead of a reception beginning at 4:00 p.m. and ceremonies at 6:00 p.m., the school announced it the reception will now begin at 5:00 p.m. with graduation ceremonies starting at 7:00 p.m.

For those guests attending graduation, gates will open at 6:00 and guests will not be allowed on the field prior to 6:00 in order to limit heat exposure.
Guests are encouraged not to arrive prior to the designated time.

Due to the excessive heat advisory, the Performing Arts Center will be available for Senior Citizens and those with medical conditions.
The graduation will be simulcast into the PAC.

Granted, it’s better than being out in the sun…but just as hot outside.

Why can't the kids be in the PAC, and have the parents stay home and watch on the local cable access channel?

Or…rent out a movie theatre for the afternoon!

Actually something we did back in the "year of the flood"!

Help me out!