June 4th

To the graduating class of 2020 and their loved ones,

The faculty and administration of CTEA wishes that this note finds you safe, healthy and well. The pandemic has challenged us all in so many ways. Normally we would physically unite at a graduation ceremony for our seniors, for whom we are so proud. However, in respect to all and in compliance with New York State guidelines, graduation for the class of 2020 will take place virtually.

For the past few months a small committee of teachers and students have been meeting weekly to create a virtual graduation ceremony for the CTEA class of 2020. We tried to keep as many traditional elements of a graduation as possible, and have a full program scheduled. Each student will have their name announced for all to cheer on.

The staff and administration at CTEA acknowledge that a virtual graduation is no substitute for the in person experience students and their families looked forward to and deserve. Our students are far too important to us, and we will do all that we can to honor and celebrate this great life achievement. The virtual graduation is a tribute to our students hard work and we plan to launch it on Friday, June 26th at 3:00 pm on Youtube. We hope you will join and celebrate with us.

We will follow up with a link to attend. UPDATED: VIRTUAL GRADUATION INSTRUCTIONS

Additionally, please note that all senior items will be delivered to your homes by the DOE courier service. We estimate that all items should be delivered by June 22nd. A signature will be required upon delivery and the courier may call you when they arrive. If you have any last minute changes to your delivery address or phone number, please email Ms. Ortiz at aortiz31@schools.nyc.gov no later then Tuesday June 9th.

Class of 2020 graduates, parents and families,

We wanted to let you know that on Friday, June 12th we were informed that the DOE had once again changed their restrictions and regulations regarding graduation activities, such as our drive-by to collect yearbooks. We had to resubmit our request along with the details of our event for central DOE approval. As of now, we have still not heard back with an approval or denial.

Regretfully we have decided that it would be best to cancel the drive-by. It takes a lot of time, planning and behind the scenes work (and that means for families and staff), to continue to plan events to then have to change our plans and notify all of you at the last minute. We understand that this is frustrating for all of you, as it is for all of us. We were looking forward to seeing you all one last time before you move on to the next chapter of your lives. From the bottom of our hearts we sincerely apologize for any confusion or inconvenience this has caused. With almost no access to the building it is nearly impossible to provide you with concrete information on delivery dates. Please rest assured that we will get all of your senior items to you as soon as possible.

Please note that all items will once again be shipped to your homes, this time by the USPS.

If you have not yet received your cap and gown package, please email Ms. Ortiz at aortiz31@schools.nyc.gov. We are waiting on any undelivered items to be returned to CTEA. Please provide your current mailing address and best telephone number where you can be reached.

As for the possibility of a summer graduation, unfortunately this will not happen. St. John's University has cancelled all summer ceremonies. We have been in contact and are discussing the possible dates and availability for a Fall ceremony.

We will keep you posted on any updates we receive. Please be sure to utilize PupilPath as well as the hsforctea.org website.

Thank you,

HS for CTEA