Monterey peninsula high schools get ready for graduation ceremonies

SEASIDE, Calif. (KION) The end to high school for Seaside seniors did not go as planned. "Us seniors, we can't spend time with each other. It is what it is. We have to push on," said graduating senior, Damian Marasigan.

Marasigan and his classmates are now one step closer to earning their diplomas. On Thursday, students dropped off their books and laptops before getting a parking pass. The pass is their ticket to graduation.

Staff from seven Monterey Peninsula high schools came up with the idea for a 'drive thru' graduation at Laguna Seca.

"We're not allowed to have a typical graduation. This is something we can do to still celebrate the hard work and success of our student," Seaside High School Principal, Aaron Sanders.

Every graduate will be allowed to fill one car with family and friends. Seniors will drive up to a stage where they will be handed their diploma. After, cars will park and listen to student and staff speakers.

"The grand finale is that they will take a lap around Laguna Seca and cross the finish line together," said Sanders.

The Monterey County Sheriff's Office and California Highway Patrol plan to help with the ceremonies.

CHP said cars will file in from the entrance off Highway 68. "At the beginning, when we have traffic coming in, we expect some delays. As well as at the end when everyone is trying to exit and get home safely," said Jessica Madueno with Monterey CHP.

Madueno said traffic on Highway 68 is to be expected this weekend.