Neighboring county lifts graduation crowd limits

At least so far, each Oconee senior at his or her high school graduation next month will be limited to eight guests.  And that, according to the school district, will help ensure the health and safety of all who attend. the spokeswoman for Oconee schools issued the following statement: “The governor’s executive order still limits outdoor gatherings to 50% capacity or 250 people (whichever is less). However, there is a provision in the executive order exempting public school districts.  With that being said, our plan is to continue our current protocols through the end of this school year since they have been effective in keeping our students in face-to-face learning.  In regards to graduation, the consensus among high school principals and district leadership was to allow 8 guests per graduate to allow for reasonable social distancing.  Safety protocols and masking guidance will be announced closer to time so we can evaluate the virus situation occurring at that time.” The seniors in neighboring Franklin County, Georgia won’t have to worry about who to invite to their May 21 ceremony.  Lake Hartwell Radio WLHR at Lavonia quotes the superintendent as saying that now, since the Georgia governor has suspended COVID-19 restrictions, Franklin County High School will no longer require tickets. Which Superintendent Chris Forrer believes “should make everybody very, very happy.”  Franklin County is scheduled to graduate 248 seniors.