Graduation will have a familiar feel in Esko

Esko seniors will graduate in a normal ceremony this year, if everything goes the way superintendent Aaron Fischer hopes it does. “Current guidelines will allow only two guests per student,” at the graduation ceremony, he told the Pine Knot News, “but we’re expecting the restrictions to be relaxed May 28. If they are, we’re ready to have a completely normal graduation ceremony on June 4.” Students will be allowed up to six guests if the Minnesota Department of Education modifies its guidelines by then, the school board was informed at its meeting Monday, May 10.

Prom is this weekend, and the school is still obligated to follow Covid safety protocols, Fischer said. The grand march will commence at 3 p.m. Saturday in the trophy lobby and the students will march outside so parents and others can see the prom-goers. The actual prom event will be held at the school’s athletic field, with music and socializing and an outdoor movie, as dances are not yet allowed due to the continuing restrictions. “It would be nice if the Covid restrictions were lifted by prom but, frankly, the students are so happy to participate in any social activities after the last year or so, anything seems like a treat to them,” Fischer said.

In other news, the board passed its 2021-2022 budget of about $16 million at Monday’s meeting; approved a contract with MacNeil Environmental to help keep the district in compliance with safety protocols; and approved a request from Wood City Riders, a snowmobile club, to use a trail across property owned by the school north and east of the school’s athletic facility. That motion was passed 5-1, with member Todd Rengo voting against the proposal.

Finally, the board agreed to spend about $95,000 to build additional bleachers at the athletic fields. “They’ll be used for the band during school events, and for additional seating for outside groups leasing the fields for their events, like tournaments,” Fischer said.