I knew it had changed, but I just ignored it. Again, it changed 10 years after I retired, and even when I was still working at Buna High, I knew someday it would change.
Of course in 2020, Buna High started holding high school graduation back on the football field.
This is after it was held inside the " New Activity Center" for about 20 years.
One of the bond selling points for the " New Activity Center" was there would be no more " rain-outs" and we would not have to suffer in Southeast Texas heat and humidity.
Trouble is, even with Mr. Menard turning the air way down early in the day of graduation, with every living soul living in the Buna ISD ages birth to 110 years of age, coming to the ceremony, the " New Activity Center" was hot. It is just the nature of having several thousand people packed into what amounts to a tin can.
Then, there was the fact that if you are sitting in the stands, you really can't see the stage. And by the end of the ceremony, your neck is killing you, turned in the direction of said stage.
When I was still employed by the Buna ISD, I made a suggestion that the graduation be moved back to the field, and was assured by leadership, it'll never be changed back. And the Supt. of Schools at the time was mad at me for even suggesting it be moved back. This was the same Supt. of Schools who was mad that memos from the the UIL Director referred to the academic team sponsors as " Coaches."( He blew smooth up.) Never mind the University Interscholastic League ( UIL) in the book on Rules and Regulations for everything from Athletics, to Music, to Academics, called all the academic sponsors " Coach." And called them " Coach" several times in the rules of each academic event. All 30+ academic events at the time.
But I digress.
Am I glad the graduation is back on the field?
Yes, I am.
It gives actual meaning to " Walking" when the senior gets to walk down the track in front of the stands. It's a time of pride for not only them, but the family and friends.
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