Preparations are underway for Jim Thorpe Area High School’s graduation at Pocono Raceway.

“We’re so excited we could be part of such a unique opportunity to celebrate the 2020 commencement,” said Superintendent John Rushefski.

The school board officially approved the graduation at their meeting Wednesday night, voting to pay all fees associated with the event. Board member Raniero Marciante said it is the least that they can do for the graduates.

The event is scheduled to take place at the track at 5 p.m. on June 3, with students driving onto the track to receive their diplomas.

Families will be given VIP parking near the victory lane and video boards.

Ricky Durst, senior director of marketing and tickets for Pocono Raceway, participated in the virtual board meeting. He said Pocono is excited for the opportunity to provide a memorable graduation for the class.

“As much as anyone out there we recognize what’s been going on in the last weeks and months, it’s quite a damper on their traditional celebration, how meaningful it is for them, their classmates and family members,” he said.

District officials are optimistic that the event will go forward despite Monroe County remaining in the “red phase” with stay-at-home orders in place.

Board member Paul Montemuro said he obtained a letter from Tunkhannock Township, Monroe County, stating that they have no objection to the event taking place as long as it follows the governor’s guidelines.

High School Principal Tom Lesisko said the last official day for seniors to submit work will be May 22. Senior grades will be submitted May 27.

He said between May 22-27, teachers will be working with seniors who may have unfinished coursework.

Seniors will return laptops and books on May 27, and receive their caps and gowns.

Lesisko said students who were on track to graduate before the coronavirus won’t be held back due to their performance during online schooling.

“We want to see everyone walk, that’s our goal,” he said.

In other business

The board agreed to post a job opening for a school counselor position following a presentation from L.B. Morris Principal Holly Mordaunt. Mordaunt’s presentation showed that the district’s counselors are responsible for more students than is recommended by the Pennsylvania School Counselors Association.