UPDATE: The Senior Send-Off Parade, originally scheduled for tonight, has been postponed until Friday because of a weather forecast for strong storms and hail this evening. The parade preparation time on Friday will be the same as originally planned with the parade starting at 6:30 p.m.

The Akins community will celebrate the Class of 2020 with a “Senior Send-Off” vehicle parade through the campus parking lots on Friday, May 29.

The event is designed to provide a way for teachers and families to celebrate the upcoming graduation of this year’s seniors in a way that meets social distancing guidelines. Seniors, or another driver, will parade through the campus parking lot in their vehicles while teachers and family members cheer for them from designated areas for each.

The seniors are told to decorate their vehicles and bring someone else to drive so they can wave and enjoy the moment and they may not leave their car for the duration of the parade.

Akins administrators have developed some strict rules that must be followed for the event to be safe and fun for everyone.

Parade Rules for Seniors

• Seniors will meet at the Cinemark theater parking lot by 5:30 p.m.
• Seniors may wear their cap and gown if they want.
• Administrators encourage parents or family members to drive parade vehicles, so our seniors may wave and enjoy the moment.
• Seniors must follow the route during the parade.
• The parade will go through the route only twice and will follow the Austin ISD police car.
• Seniors must follow the parade speed limit of 5 miles per hour.
• After each car finishes the route the 2nd time, the parade is over.

The parade is open to underclassman friends and families who wish to see off their seniors though they have their own set of rules:

Parade Rules for Spectators

• Parents, Akins underclassmen, family members, and community members are encouraged to watch the parade along the route from Southpark Meadows, Alice May Blvd behind Sam’s, Taft Street, and the stretch along S. First Street between Taft Street to Akins.
• If you are watching at Akins, arrive between 5:30 – 6:15 p.m. Parking at Akins will be limited and in designated areas.
• Spectators are encouraged to have signs and cheer on all seniors.
• If you wish to be out of your car, please select a social distancing marker for your familyto watch the parade. See the map that shows where parents can gather to watch the parade.
• Please stay with your party on your social distancing mark in the spectator area
• Spectator parking at Akins will be closed at 6:15 p.m.
• Spectators will not be able to exit route until 7:15 p.m. or the conclusion of the parade if you are parked at Akins.
• Unfortunately, no building access or restrooms will be available.
• Following Austin ISD rules, no alcohol, tobacco, or weapons permitted.