OKEMOS AND HASLETT, MI - Okemos and Haslett Public Schools continue to honor seniors as COVID-19 practices stay in place.

Sports are coming back as Okemos High School starts summer football conditioning next week. Freshmen JV and Varsity will begin practice at the Football Stadium.

An alternative commencement will be held at the end of June for Okemos High School seniors. The ceremony will take place at the OHS parking lot and operate like a drive-in movie.

Seniors dressed up in their cap and gown can watch the event with their families from individual cars. A stage with two screens will display the ceremony. While students must remain in their cars, they will still watch together as a graduating class. Sound will broadcast from speakers and an FM radio station.

The ceremony includes senior speeches and class advisors reading off the names of senior graduates as their photo and name appear on the screen.

For those unable to attend the service, a live stream of the event will be uploaded. The OHS Parent Group is accepting donations to the Class of 2020 graduation event. A link will be provided below.

Haslett High School hosted a virtual choir banquet Sunday night.

“Even with all the twists and turns among us, we’ve been able to do some pretty amazing things this year,” said Director of Choral Activities Matthew Callaghan.

Callaghan expressed his appreciation to staff and parent group Haslett Choir Boosters for their support in fundraising and providing scholarships to students.

Associate Director of Choral Activities Samara Valla presented senior awards with Callaghan via Facebook live. The awards were split between three choirs: varsity, treble and concert. Seniors were recognized for their growth, musicality, leadership and enthusiasm.

A fundraiser night will be held next Thursday at Noodles and Co. Students and families can order online and half of the proceeds will go to Haslett Choirs with the code Giving25.