In a year where it appeared there may not be a graduation ceremony at Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Class of 2020 could have two.

A small ceremony was held Friday evening in front of the high school to recognize Matthew Meyers and Clint Peters, who are scheduled to leave for basic training prior to commencement exercises which are scheduled for Sunday, July 12.

MIKE PETERSEN/SENTINEL-NEWS

Matthew Meyers hugs a loved one during last week's commencement ceremony.

"This is not really how we wanted to do this, but with COVID we have no choice," said Principal Nate Hemiller. "We wanted to do a send-off before they left."

Despite the circumstances, the ceremony included some of the traditions that the rest of the class hopes to experience in a month, including the rose presentation by the graduates to their mothers and the presentation of the diplomas by Board President Scott Heetland.

Immediate family members were in attendance.

Peters is joining the Iowa Army National Guard and was scheduled to leave for basic training this week. Meyers leaves for basic training with the United States Marine Corps later this month.

"We hope you enjoy basic training and stay safe," Hemiller said. "Take care of each other."