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Pine-Richland School District FAQs

each person. This will only be possible if safety and health guidelines permit a traditional
ceremony or some modification to a traditional ceremony.

Q: If a virtual graduation ceremony is necessary, how will seniors receive their
diplomas?
A: If a virtual graduation ceremony is necessary, diplomas will be distributed at Pine-Richland
High School. Specifics related to diploma distribution will be shared in late May based on social
distancing guidelines by public health experts.

Q: How and when will caps and gowns be distributed?

A: Caps and gowns were ordered by most seniors. Currently, approximately 70 seniors still
need to order their caps and gowns. The high school office is contacting those families. Caps
and gowns should arrive at the high school in mid-May. Based on current health and safety
guidelines, the distribution process will be communicated in mid-May.

Q: How will the high school handle dues and fees owed to the district by seniors?
(AP exam fees, Sodexo balance, lost books, activity fees from previous year, and
seasons)

A: Financial obligations will be communicated on a student-by-student basis. All outstanding
fees must be paid prior to graduation. If extenuating circumstances exist, the family should
contact one of the school administrators. All information will be held in strict confidence.

Seniors will also need to return Chromebooks and textbooks/materials through a process to-be-
determined that connects to graduation practice. Students in K - 11 will keep those items for
summer work.

Q: Will my final senior transcript be sent to my college in time for me to schedule
my college courses?

A: The final transcript will be sent automatically via Naviance as long as the senior student has
completed the Senior Survey in their Naviance account. The Senior Survey opened April 1st
and will remain available through June 5th. If a senior has any questions, please contact Mrs.
Jean Whalen at jwhalen@pinerichland.org.

Q: How will graduation requirements be met for students with IEPs who are
expected to graduate in spring 2020?
A: A student with a disability may graduate either through the fulfillment of high school
graduation requirements set forth in Pennsylvania requirements or upon the completion of their
IEP goals, as determined by the IEP team. IEP teams can meet by phone and/or Google Meet
to determine the impact of COVID-19 school closure and make determinations based on each
student’s progress and circumstance.

Q: If we have a virtual commencement, will our family be able to take pictures?
A: The format for commencement will be determined at the end of May. If a virtual option is
necessary for June 5th, a schedule will be developed to ensure that all seniors and their families
have the opportunity to take pictures in a defined location on the high school campus if desired
(e.g., stadium turf by the Class of 2020 arch or front of the high school building).

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