Graduation broadcast around the world

CLAYSBURG - Claysburg-Kimmel High School's graduation ceremony was webcast live Sunday afternoon to Iraq, Equador and Korea.

Using three cameras, a laptop computer and Internet connecting devices, school district technician Jerome Dodson arranged a transmission so out-of-country family members could watch every step of the annual Pomp and Circumstance.

Michael Blair Sr., a 1988 graduate of Claysburg-Kimmel High School, was one of those believed to be watching from afar. He has been in Iraq since January with the Army National Guard.

"I was excited when I knew he was going to get see it," said son Michael Blair Jr., who graduated.

Shelly Blair said she was excited too for her husband. When he was assigned to Iraq, she figured he would miss graduation.

"He would have loved to have been here," said Amanda Brown, sister of Michael Blair Sr. "He has two nieces in addition to his son in this class."

Dodson had the cameras set up allowing webcast viewers to see from both sides of the stage where the graduates were seated. Another camera was in front of the podium where each graduate was recognized for activities and awards, then handed a diploma.

Gabriela Pita of Equador, a one-year exchange student who returns home in July, said her mother wanted to come for graduation but didn't have enough time to get a visa to travel.

"I was really glad she got to watch it," Pita said.

Daniel Knott of Claysburg said he was glad that his brother Brad, who graduated in 2002, could watch from Korea where he is stationed with the Army.

"Brad was able to fly home for regionals and states [wrestling tournaments], but I thought he was going to miss my graduation," Knott said. "This was pretty cool."

Superintendent James O'Harrow mentioned the webcast in his remarks and marveled at the capability.

"A lot has changed since this group entered kindergarten," he said.

In his report card on the class, Principal Mark Mitchell said that of the 68 graduating seniors, 13 have already earned some college credits. An additional 31 students plan to pursue four-year college degrees. Sixteen have signed up for technical, business or associate degree programs. Eighteen will be looking for jobs, and one student has enlisted in the military.