When the Arlington ISD announced it would hold its 2020 graduation ceremonies at UT Arlington’s College Park Center last week, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) had not issued graduation procedures. Upon learning that ceremonies couldn’t be held indoors, the district immediately began working on a new graduation strategy with Charlotte Jones, executive vice president and chief brand officer, Dallas Cowboys. They offered the prestigious AT&T Stadium as a host site to Arlington ISD students and parents. The stadium’s convertible roof makes the facility an outdoor venue that meets TEA guidelines.

“We are humbled and grateful to the Gene and Jerry Jones Family Arlington Youth Foundation and Charlotte Jones for their extraordinary expression of generosity,” said Dr. Marcelo Cavazos, superintendent, Arlington ISD. “For our more than 4,000 seniors at seven high schools we know that being able to graduate in a beautiful location with their classmates and families present will be more meaningful than ever.”

“High school graduation is one of the most significant moments of a young person’s life,” said Charlotte Jones. “It is also very meaningful for the parents of all of the students who are reaching this milestone. We are so very proud to be able to, in our own way, help to make this event as special as it can possibly be in these most difficult of times. Arlington is the home of AT&T Stadium and the Dallas Cowboys, and all of the students of the AISD are part of our family. We want you to enjoy this day and remember it forever.”

“This is a classic example of the Arlington way,” said Arlington Mayor Jeff Williams. “When a problem presents itself, our community works together and figures out a way to solve it. Our graduating seniors deserve to be celebrated and thanks to the creative thinking of the Dallas Cowboys and AISD, these seniors will get a graduation they’ll never forget.”

2020 Graduation Schedule:

• June 5: Lamar High School, 3:30 p.m.
• June 6: Arlington High School, 10 a.m.
• June 6: Seguin High School,  3 p.m.
• June 6: Martin High School, 8 p.m.
• June 7: Arlington Collegiate High School,  10 a.m.
• June 7: Bowie High School,  3 p.m.
• June 7:  Sam Houston High School, 8 p.m.

AT&T Stadium will be hosting in partnership with the Arlington ISD and the Arlington Fire Department to provide the safest graduation possible. Strict safety protocols will be will be in place for the ceremonies including health screenings and social distancing for all students and guests.