Bibb County exchange students barred from graduation walk. Here’s what to know
The Bibb County School District is upholding its policy that prevents international exchange students from participating in graduation ceremonies, despite community pushback after a host parent shared the situation on social media.
The case involves two exchange students at Rutland High School who took part in senior year activities but will not walk at the May 21 commencement.
Here are key takeaways:
• Briana Thompson-Sears, who is hosting two international exchange students at Rutland High School, posted on Facebook on April 18 that the students would not be permitted to walk at graduation, according to The Telegraph. The post drew hundreds of comments and shares.
• Under the district’s “Regulation JQK: Exchange Students,” adopted in April 2024, exchange students may earn course credit but are not eligible to receive a diploma or participate in graduation ceremonies, district spokesperson Jeremy Timmerman told The Telegraph.
• Thompson-Sears said the students’ families obtained visas to attend the ceremony and were not requesting diplomas be awarded — only that the students be allowed to participate and have their names called. The students had paid for senior photos and graduation attire.
• Superintendent Dan Sims initially commented on Thompson-Sears’ post saying the district would work with the host family, students and exchange agency to address the matter in line with established policies.
• In an April 25 update on Facebook, Thompson-Sears said the district reaffirmed its policy but suggested alternatives such as a pre-ceremony senior experience or a role as a class guide or usher. District spokesperson Stephanie Hartley said there have been no changes to the policy.
• Thompson-Sears said the proposed alternatives were “disappointing and disheartening” to hear and that the family would focus on celebrating the students’ academic accomplishments. Rutland High School’s graduation is scheduled for May 21.
The summary points above were compiled with the help of AI tools and edited by Telegraph journalists. The source reporting referenced above was written and edited entirely by Telegraph journalists.