RHS Stadium Flooded, Graduation Held on Front Lawn

Ridgewood High School graduation will still be held outside though it's not exactly the spot the district had in mind. School workers were seen moving chairs set up on the main football field beyond the east side bleachers, on the front lawn.

The RHS Stadium Field's southern and eastern sides are under a significant belly of water. There are several large "wrinkles" pushing the turf upward. Nearby, those walking from the Graydon South Parking Lot will need to find another entrance, as the foot bridge is currently under heavy rushing water.  The Ho-Ho-Kus Brook rushed over its flood stage by nearly a half foot, but has since receded.

The District's Public Information Officer Debra Anderson said the ceremony will be conducted on the front lawn, at 5 p.m. as anticipated.

"The graduates will be seated at the top of the hill facing the west. They will proceed from the Little Theatre and move down the walkway to the circle by the front entrance. They will move up the steps to their seats," she said, instructing those attending to not block the walkway.

"Spectators can stand for an abbreviated ceremony in open lawn space, Heermance Place, and the visitor’s bleachers. The Iced Tea reception will be conducted in Gym 1."

Sources say the elderly will be seated in chairs lining the sidewalk path; those confined to wheelchairs will be sitting on the circular patio where the podium will be.

Basil Pizzuto told Patch this was all the district could do, as the gym didn't have capacity.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Daniel Fishbein refused to talk to Patch on the matter. Similarly, Assistant Superintendent for Business Angelo DeSimone also decline to comment when approached.

How many parents, family and friends can attend is currently unknown.

Laura Bertocci contributed to this article.

Stay tuned to Patch as we continue to update.