“Rituals are central to our existence. We renew
ourselves, bond with others, and experience life’s fundamental significance in
our everyday liturgy. Think of the hollowness we would create if we were to
cancel traditions filled with rituals” (Deal, T.E., & Peterson, K.D, 2016 p. 99). This exactly how many
students felt at all levels of education when Graduations had to be cancelled
due to Covid. Many schools and universities faced the same problem on how to
proceed with a significant ritual. Throughout all schools there was a great
sense of loss. “Without rituals to note accomplishments or offer symbolic
recognition of small wins and incremental improvements, the chance to renew
hopes and spirit would decline” (Deal,
T.E., & Peterson, K.D, 2016 p. 99). This is exactly how Howard County
Public School System in Baltimore, Maryland felt. "Our seniors have
worked so hard throughout their academic career, and I am disappointed that the
current situation will prevent us from having an in-person graduation and other
celebratory activities" (Howard School as cited in Meyer, J. C., 2020, p.
1). Howard County Schools decided to host a virtual ceremony just like many
other school districts in the United States. The Howards School provided
specific dates, times and other details to hold a virtual graduation and awards
ceremony. Positive school rituals like Graduations result in memorable
experiences which encourage students to celebrate their uniqueness and school
culture. “It is so important that we take care of our high school seniors and
provide them with experiences that celebrate their tremendous accomplishments” (Meyer,
J. C., 2020, p. 1). Researcher believe that without expressive events to
celebrate culminating moments people tend to lose their way as a society. “When
you lose ritual, you lose a sense of civilization; that’s why our society is so
out of kilter” (Deal, T.E., &
Peterson, K.D, 2016 p. 99). Graduation is an important ritual in
education that symbolizes an attainment of a goal. It is a shared ritual that
bonds students together to one another and the school community. It strengthens
their connection to the school. For that reason, Howard School offered a
virtual ceremony to their students and hosted an in person celebration at
another time.
References.
Deal, T. E., &
Peterson, K.D., (2016). Shaping school culture: The heart of leadership.
Jossey-Bass.
