Round Rock ISD cancels proms, in-person May graduation due to coronavirus pandemic

All Round Rock ISD prom, as well as May's in-person graduation, has been canceled due to the coronavirus, Superintendent Steve Flores announced in an April 20 video posted to the district's web page.

The announcement follows Gov. Greg Abbott's extension of school closures through the end of the academic year as a result of the pandemic.

Virtual graduation ceremonies will be held this spring in recognition of the class of 2020, according to an April 20 RRISD news release. District officials are also holding discussions with the H-E-B Center in Cedar Park regarding potential dates for in-person commencement ceremonies, per the release.

"The ability to hold in-person graduation ceremonies will depend on situational circumstances and direction from local governments on large gatherings at that time," the release read.

RRISD personnel will distribute caps and gowns to seniors in early May and will pass along announcements on virtual ceremonies as more details emerge.

"As superintendent, the absolute highlight of my career is standing on the graduation stage with all of you. I dearly hope I'll be able to do that, though a little later than planned," Flores said in the video announcement. "But I'll say to you now what I say every year on that stage: 'Wherever your journey takes you, always know you have a special place in our hearts. You are part of the Round Rock ISD family and legacy, and those bonds last a lifetime.'"