School Board Office

6 Schoolhouse Road
Washington, Virginia 22747
Telephone (540) 227-0023
Fax (540) 987-8896
www.rappahannockschools.us

3/29/2021

Dear Families of the Class of 2021,

RCPS administration has been meeting over the past several weeks to determine the best course of action to
recognize and celebrate our amazing senior class. A survey has been in the works for input from the Class of
2021 and families. However, there has been a delay as we need to provide options that comply with the
parameters set forth by the state of Virginia to ensure safety during the pandemic. Last week, Amendments to
Executive Order 72 were released and served as the latest guidance that schools must follow regarding
gatherings and events.

As of April 1st, indoor gatherings are limited to 50 people, outdoor at 100. We must follow these limits
when planning Baccalaureate, Senior Banquet, Prom, or any other school-related social events. We are currently
exploring a variety of options for these special events to present ideas for the senior class and their families to
vote on in an upcoming survey. The Class of 2021 has been working hard to raise funds of nearly $7000 for
senior activities. Therefore, many options will be available.

Additionally, Governor Northam has provided unique guidance specific to graduation ceremonies. Total
attendance for indoor gatherings cannot exceed THE LESSER OF 30% of the lowest occupancy load OR 500
people. For the RCHS gymnasium, that means no more than approximately 150 people. Therefore, indoor
graduation would be limited to seniors and staff plus one guest each for seniors. For outdoor graduation
ceremonies, the total attendance cannot exceed the lesser of 30% of the lowest occupancy load OR 5,000
people. Furthermore, outdoor gatherings would need to have a “rain plan.” We are currently researching how
these guidelines will affect our options for graduation. Currently, outdoor guidelines require that all parties
(small groups of no more than 25 people) must be at least ten feet apart.

Before the release of Amended Executive Order 72 last week, we planned and studied the feasibility of
activities such as a bonfire, outdoor movie, outdoor banquet, and more. Now that we have more specific
guidelines, we are redesigning a few options to present to the seniors and their families. During the senior
meeting held earlier this morning, students provided input on celebrations that could be held with respect to the
state guidelines. A second senior meeting will be held for cohort B students on Tuesday, March 29th.
Additionally, a parents’ meeting has been planned for Tuesday evening.

We are looking forward to celebrating our Class of 2021 for their amazing achievements at RCPS. While it may
not look like the traditional celebrations of years before the pandemic, we are working hard to present safe,
memorable options that are equally as exceptional and extraordinary as our graduating seniors. Additional
information will be forthcoming shortly.
We will be hosting a Class of 2021 Student/Parent meeting on Tuesday evening, March 30 th, at 6 pm in the
RCHS Auditorium. We hope that you will be able to join us. More information on a zoom option will be
released shortly.