The commencement ceremony went off without a hitch last night at United High School, but with some mixed emotions as well. Graduation at United was supposed to be last Friday, but was postponed to Monday because a group of students entered a restricted area, prompting school district officials to summon police, and eventually a bomb squad and k-9 unit.
While not referencing the incident during their remarks last night, two students did lament that eight fellow seniors couldn’t be with them. The eight did get their diplomas but were not permitted to take part in the ceremony. Over the weekend, many students and community members used social media to express their frustrations.
Seventy-eight students graduated from United this year. Seventy participated in the ceremony last night. State police continue their investigation of the incident, while the school district continues to investigate how the students gained access to the padlocked area.
Two area school districts will hold graduation ceremonies this week, bringing the 2017-18 school year to a close. Purchase Line’s commencement is tonight. Armstrong and West Shamokin will hold graduation on Thursday.
