By Frank Sinatra, AAP Editor

Earlier today, the Pennsauken School District launched a survey to poll Township households to determine the location of graduation for the Class of 2019.

In March, an initial determination was made to hold high school graduation, tentatively scheduled for June 17, in the high school’s gymnasium, citing increased costs at the BB&T Center in Camden and ongoing construction work around the football stadium due to the bond referendum passed last year. In addition school officials were concerned that families would not want to travel to Philadelphia and incur costs for tolls and parking for a location like the Liacouras Center at Temple University. But based on parent and student turnout at last week’s Board of Education, school officials felt the need to obtain more community feedback on the decision.

“The Board of Education genuinely cares about all residents in Pennsauken and all of our students. They would like to honor the opinions of all residents, including those who might like the graduation to be held in the high school gymnasium,” wrote Dr. Ronnie Tarchichi, superintendent, Pennsauken Public Schools, in a letter posted on the District’s website. “After discussing what is in the best interest of our students and families, a decision has been made to survey Pennsauken households to see where
graduation will be held.”

The survey, currently posted at Pennsauken.net, is open now through Friday, May 3. On Monday, May 6, Pennsauken Public Schools will announce the results and where graduation will be held. The survey requires residents to submit their names and addresses for verification purposes. Each Pennsauken household is allowed one vote.

“We are a school district that values the opinions of our students, parents, and community stakeholders,” added Tarchichi. “I assure you that this will be a beautiful and memorable ceremony for both the students and
their families, regardless of the location.”

Survey for the location of Pennsauken High School’s graduation