D-38 schools move graduation

Both the Lewis-Palmer High School and Palmer Ridge High School May 22 graduation ceremonies have been moved from the US Air Force Academy to the World Arena, 3185 Venetucci Boulevard, Colorado Springs 80906. The US Air Force Academy’s current heightened security status is likely to cause multiple accessibility issues.

“We support the Air Force Academy’s need to ensure the security of their facility. Moving our graduation ceremonies to a confirmed venue is in the best interest of our students and families,” said Julie Stephen, Public information Officer for District 38.

The LPHS graduation will begin at 11 a.m., and the PRHS graduation will begin at 4 p.m. There will be no seating restrictions, and parking is free. Both ceremonies will be livestreamed. The link to view both graduations is: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/lpsd-live. This link will also be available on the district website www.lewispalmer.org in addition to both the LPHS and PRHS websites.

District 20 is going forward with their ceremonies at Clune Arena on the Academy.

“All five of our high school graduation ceremonies are going forward on base next week as scheduled. Below is the message we sent to all parents of high school seniors last night,” wrote Nanette Anderson, Public Information Officer, for District 20.

“Although there have been recent changes in security measures at the U.S. Air Force Academy, 2015 graduation ceremonies for Academy District 20 students will still be held at Clune Arena. There will be some changes in access and those are outlined below.

Access to ceremonies – North Gate

Guest access is only through the North Gate.

Arrive one to two hours early – please carpool.

Be sure your driver has a current driver’s license and that all adult occupants of your vehicle have current identification.

Vehicles will be searched. It’s faster if the trunk of your car is empty.

Keep totebags, gym bags, coolers, to a minimum – this will help speed up the search process.

Access to ceremonies – South Gate

Guests who have Department of Defense credentials or DBIDs (Defense Biometric Identification System) cards may enter through the South Gate.

Vehicles are still subject to searches.

Thank you for your cooperation to make the commencement ceremonies a positive event for the graduates and their guests.”

Trails, including the Santa Fe Trail, have also increased security at the Academy.

“Due to increased security concerns derived from a NORTHCOM Advisory, the section of Santa Fe trail that runs through the Academy is closed to non-DOD ID cardholders. Visitors may be escorted by DOD ID cardholders. The portions of trail running outside of the Academy are not affected. This security measure is in place until further notice. USAFA leadership asks the public and military personnel to remain vigilant and if you see or hear anything suspicious, or have any further questions, please contact Security Forces at (719) 333-2000,” said U.S.A.F.A officials.

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