(KNZA)--Graduation ceremonies in Prairie Hills USD 113 have been rescheduled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Superintendent Todd Evans says the Board of Education Monday evening approved rescheduling the graduation ceremonies at the district's three schools for Sunday, July 26.  The time for each school’s graduation will be set by Evans and the school principals.

If a traditional graduation ceremony isn't possible on that date, Evans said each principal will be encouraged to find alternative ways to recognize the graduates in lieu of a traditional ceremony.

Approval of the new graduation date came on a 5-2 vote, with board members Jim Scoby and Jeff DeMint casting the dissenting votes.

Graduation ceremonies at Axtell, Sabetha and Wetmore were originally scheduled for May 16.

In other business, Evans said the Board approved grading procedures for the remainder of the school year as prepared by the administrative team.

For younger students, he said they want to encourage teacher feedback using their continuous learning methods of communication.

For older students, Evans said the intent is to not have the current COVID-19 situation have a negative impact on their grades.

He said they do expect students to have the opportunity to increase their grades through their engagement and efforts.

The Board also approved a proposal for the use of the remainder of the former USD 488 bond money, which amounts to nearly $38,000.

It will be used to re-finish the Axtell school gym floor, move the volleyball standards to allow the bleachers on the north side of the gym to be completely pulled out, and to re-paint the floor.

Any money left over will be applied toward the purchase of new playground equipment for Axtell elementary students.