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2d ago

Tennessee High Schools Hold Graduations That Continued Through Torrential Rain

Viral videos of drenched graduates prompted safety complaints that challenge the district's rain‑or‑shine practices.

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An image collage containing 3 images, Image 1 shows Collage of a person under a plastic sheet in the rain and a crying woman on a video call, Image 2 shows People in graduation gowns standing on a stadium bleacher, Image 3 shows A football field filled with rows of white folding chairs and a dark, cloudy sky overhead, indicating a graduation ceremony proceeding despite heavy rain

Overview

  • The outdoor commencements at Centennial High School and Franklin High School proceeded as rain intensified Thursday night, with footage showing students walking the stage and families seated in soaked bleachers.
  • Williamson County Schools superintendent Jason Golden defended the decision, saying forecasts and radar led organizers to expect the ceremonies would finish before heavier rain and that on‑campus football‑field graduations allow more guests to attend.
  • The downpour forced parts of the programs to be canceled, left gowns and diplomas drenched, and prompted parents to report safety worries such as slippery bleachers and risks to elderly attendees.
  • Several videos went viral on social platforms, drawing sharp public criticism from some parents and commentators and calls from families for answers or a make‑up ceremony.
  • Holding outdoor, rain‑or‑shine graduations is common because stadiums fit more guests, but this episode could prompt the district to review its contingency planning and make-up policies if officials decide to respond to the public outcry.