Board debates graduation regalia and senior-recognition policy; seeks input from principals and counselors

The Wicomico County Board of Education discussed proposed changes to senior scholastic recognition and a separate graduation regalia policy during its work-session policy review.

Policy staff said most of the seven policies before the board this month were stylistic updates, but members focused substantial discussion on senior recognition and graduation attire. Trustees debated whether to restore valedictorian and salutatorian designations, how to recognize fine-arts and career-technical accomplishments (for example, Seal of Biliteracy and SkillsUSA), and whether to limit the number of medals or allow students to wear a single, district-recognized medal for awards earned during the senior year.

“One of the suggestions is to allow a student to display any cord, medal or pin awarded by the district, state or armed forces during their senior year,” a board member said; other trustees expressed concern that such a change could produce an unwieldy number of cords and a visually cluttered commencement.

Several trustees urged staff to consult senior class advisors, principals and guidance counselors and return with procedural language that might limit the number of items displayed while still recognizing well-rounded achievement. Policy staff said they would present revised procedure options and consider adding cord or medal categories that better reflect fine arts and CTE accomplishments.

The board signaled consensus to move forward with minor policy updates now and to devote additional review to graduation procedures and regalia ahead of a future meeting.

What’s next: Staff will consult school leaders and return with recommended procedural changes for board consideration.