The city of Charleston plans to facilitate a parade of vehicles for the Charleston High School Class of 2020 on Friday.
Mayor Sedrick Smith announced the plan Monday. The parade is being organized by parents and CHS seniors.
The idea is touted as a way for the general public to honor the graduates.
"After all [the seniors] have gone through, I think this is the least we can do," Smith said.
Friday's commencement exercises are scheduled to get underway at 8:15 a.m. in the Morgan Freeman Auditorium at CHS. The ceremonies are private and closed to the general public.
Students will graduate on a staggered schedule, one party at a time, according to plans announced last week by East Tallahatchie School District Superintendent Dr. Darron Edwards.
LaSuna Curry, the parent of a graduating senior and an organizer of Friday's parade, said once the ceremonies at CHS are finished, graduates are to gather at the former National Guard armory on South Cossar Avenue for the 3 p.m. start of the parade.
She said the parade will highlight graduates only.
"It's going to be their day and the parade will be for them," Curry explained.
She stressed that family members and other well-wishers are encouraged to gather along the parade route, and even make and display special signs or posters to cheer on graduates.
"Bring your black-and-gold pom-poms if you have any," Curry added.
Curry said the procession of vehicles bearing the graduates will leave the former armory grounds traveling north on Cossar Avenue, turn left (west) onto George Payne Cossar Blvd. and, finally, make one loop around the Tallahatchie County Courthouse before disbursing.
Charleston Police Chief Justin Gammage assisted with planning for the parade route, noted Smith.
Anyone who gathers along the parade route to salute the graduates is reminded that in a continued effort to slow the spread of COVID-19, the city of Charleston requires a face mask be worn at all times when in public. In addition, it is advised that social distancing guidelines of 6 feet of separation be followed.
The parade is not being sponsored, administered or participated in by the East Tallahatchie School District, noted Edwards.
Editor's note: This article has been revised to reflect remarks by LaSuna Curry and updated plans for the parade's starting time and launching point.
