Number of graduation guests allowed for high school seniors in Las Cruces doubles

LAS CRUCES, New Mexico - After a tumultuous and uncertain senior year, high school students in Las Cruces will be able to graduate on a stage with more of their family and closest friends in the stands.

 “My heart is so full that we’re getting to have a graduation for this senior class," said Michelle Ronga, the principal of Las Cruces High.

After Doña Ana County's Covid-19 infection and vaccination rates improved to the 'turquoise' level on the state's rating map this week, the Las Cruces Public Schools was able to double the number of graduation tickets allowed per student from 8 to 16, the district confirmed.

"Everyone is so happy to do this work because this is what’s it all about," Ronga said. "Everything we do is for kids. That’s the most important thing that we do.”

This year's graduation ceremonies will be held outdoors at the Field of Dreams instead of being held inside at the Pan American Center.

 “It’s very nice to actually graduate on the field that we play on because I thought that the last time we played there would be the last time we were going," said Dalton Washam, a senior at Centennial High School on the football and track team.

With his football season cut short and many traditions canceled in 2020, Washam told ABC-7 he hopes to end the school year on a positive note.

“I’ll definitely remember sitting at home and logging into zooms every day," the senior said. "But I’m hoping to look forward to my graduation and be able to look back on that with good memories.”

Graduation dates and times at the Field of Dreams:

Friday, May 21

Oñate High School, 9 a.m.

Arrowhead Park Early College High School, 1:30 p.m.

Mayfield High School, 6 p.m.

Saturday, May 22

Las Cruces High School, 9 a.m.

Rio Grande Prep Institute, 1:30 p.m.

Centennial High School, 6 p.m.