Pandemic prom plans

Weather will be the deciding factor in whether the public will be able to view the Luverne High School prom grand march on Saturday.
At their April 22 School Board meeting, district officials released plans that included an outdoor grand march to accommodate the in-person viewing demand.
High school principal Ryan Johnson outlined Saturday’s activities, which are scheduled from 5 to 11:30 p.m. at the school.
The grand march is planned for 5 p.m. Saturday.
Johnson outlined how the grand march will look in a letter addressed to parents.
“As couples start their walk, they will come out of the front canopy doors and make their way to a presentation spot just outside the side gym doors (voting doors),” Johnson indicated in his instructions.
“From there, our speakers will announce the names, officially presenting them to the crowd. They will then make their way north to the weight room doors, stopping along the way for patrons to congratulate them and take pictures.”
Roped-off areas will designate the grand march path. Bleachers are available for spectator seating.
A livestream of the grand march is planned to air on the Luverne Middle School/High School Facebook page.
If weather conditions are unfavorable, the grand march will take place inside with no spectators. The livestream is also planned if the weather alternative is necessary.
Current weather forecasts predict highs in the 80s with no precipitation.
School Board members supported Johnson’s plans.
“It’s something new and unique for students to experience and say ‘They were the first to do it,’” Johnson said.
While students participating in the grand march will not wear masks outside, masks are recommended for those watching the march.
Spectator parking is designated in the south student parking area.
The grand march is scheduled to end by 6 p.m., when students transition to after-prom festivities in the elementary school.
Students will rotate through six areas that include games, food and an outdoor fire pit.
Social distancing and mask requirements will be followed.
All prom activities end at 11:30 p.m.