Pomp and circumstance are back on for tens of thousands of students in the Hudson Valley.
New York will allow graduation ceremonies starting next month with restrictions depending on venue size and location.
Planning is currently underway in White Plains to host an in-person outdoor graduation in just over two months.
The district says it's critical to make sure the class of 2021 gets the graduation they deserve.
"This is an important capstone in a high school career and really it's fantastic that the governor provided the opportunity," says White Plains Superintendent of Schools Dr. Joseph Ricca.
Here are the rules in New York:
Outdoor ceremonies:
- For more than 500 people, capacity will be capped at 20% of the location's maximum seating with a vaccine or negative COVID-19 test.
- For 201 to 500 people, capacity will be capped at 33%, with the same vaccine/testing requirements.
- For fewer than 200, capacity will be capped at 50%, with vaccines and testing optional.
Indoor ceremonies:
- For more than 151 people, capacity will be capped at 10% capacity with a vaccine or negative COVID-19 test required.
- For 100 to 150 people, capacity will be capped at 33%, with the same vaccine/testing requirements.
- For fewer than 100 people, capacity will be capped at 50% with vaccines and testing optional.