Saskatoon public high schools to nix grad banquets, too costly for some families

Saskatoon’s public high schools will stop hosting graduation banquets for students effective next year.

The reason?

In a letter sent to parents, school principals say the banquets are too expensive for some families, especially when the cost of grad pictures, after-grad events and grad clothes are factored in.

The letter also notes that safety and security are concerns, and that volunteers have been dealing with some people who behave unsafely or disrespectfully.

While banquets are being cancelled, the letter says the schools will still hold cap-and-gown graduation ceremonies.

The letter also points out that many families have chosen to hold their own events for their graduating children.

“The total cost of the grad experience has created a financial hardship for some families in every school and has left some students unable to participate,” reads the letter.

“This is contrary to our goal to offer a collective celebration of all graduates.” (CKOM)