What a difference a year makes.

In 2020, the pandemic forced many school districts to alter their typical commencement plans. Last May, the Tamaqua Area School Board mulled many different ideas such as a parking lot graduation or even a virtual service - depending on current state restrictions.

Regulations were changing by the hour, and there was much uncertainty as to what “phase” Schuylkill County would be in from week-to-week.

Instead of red, yellow or green, the checkered flag is in sight for the 2021 seniors, who are on track to cross the finish line at the Tamaqua Stadium on May 28 at 7 p.m.

“We are excited about our opportunity to be able to provide a nearly identical graduation ceremony for our graduates,” said Ray Kinder, Tamaqua superintendent.

The graduation list of roughly 150 students was approved by the education committee at the workshop committee meeting at the high school on Tuesday night.

“We will expand seating for the stadium. Normally we only use the bleachers as the main area. We’ll use all of the home bleachers and everyone will be able to spread out effectively so that people can be comfortable.”

In 2020, Tamaqua separated its graduates and guests between the high school auditorium and stadium due to state COVID-19 restrictions. But the board agreed it was the best possible outcome to give Tamaqua seniors a chance to experience the culmination of their K-12 careers.

This year, Kinder said there will be one stage and everyone should be together at the stadium.

“Currently, each student will be given six tickets for graduation,” Kinder said. “That’s one more than they would usually get and it’s more than they would certainly get if we were inside.”

Last week, Gov. Tom Wolf announced that mitigation orders will be lifted on Memorial Day weekend. Kinder was asked, why not wait until the restrictions are lifted to have commencement?

Kinder said not much would be different in that scenario.

“Let’s just say, as an example, the 6 feet of distance goes away on the 31st. However, masking is still there,” Kinder said. “And the masking requires you to wear a mask - if you’re not 6 feet away. So 6 feet in general goes away, but 6 feet for masking still applies.”

Kinder said the graduates might have an opportunity to be unmasked during certain portions of the event.

“When they’re walking side-by-side, they’ll probably have their mask on. Once they get to their seats, they’ll be able to take them off.”

Kinder noted that the district plans to livestream the event regardless.

Potential weather makeup dates are May 29 or June 1.