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JUNE 18, 2020
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One-of-a-kind graduation caps unprecedented year By Jason Starr Observer staff
Champlain Valley Union High School pulled off a graduation ceremony unlike any other on Friday, retaining essential elements of tradition while working around the public health guidelines of the times. “It was a little bit of Woodstock, a little bit of drive-in theater and a little bit of a party,” described Karen Needler, the Class of 2020 advisor and an organizer of the event. Three hundred thirty-five graduates walked across the stage on
a sunny, windy day at the Champlain Valley Fairgrounds in Essex, congregating in groups of 25, standing 6 feet apart — per state regulations related to the coronavirus pandemic — to be recognized individually in front of friends and family members. They had arrived in separate cars to cheering faculty members and live music from a student band. Speakers were broadcast over the airwaves into car radios, and a large video screen simulcast the event. For the Expo, it was a dry see GRADUATION page 16
‘Cops investigating cops’ Foley looks to bring complaint probes in-house Williston Police Chief Patrick Foley’s first alternative to an inhouse review of citizen complaints against police officers would be to turn to the Vermont State Police, he said in an interview Tuesday. Under current practice, citizen complaints against officers are investigated by retired police officers who offer private investigation services. Foley is planning to train his top lieutenant, Josh Moore, to handle complaint investigations in-house to determine whether an officer acted criminally or against police policies. Foley said he understands concerns complainants might have about “cops investigating cops,” but said changing the system will require leadership from the De-
partment of Public Safety or state lawmakers — or directives from mayors or town administrators. “It’s a valid concern, but is it that big of an issue here in Vermont? I can’t say yes or no,” said Foley. “It’s got to be a combined effort to look at what our alternatives are.” Foley said the Attorney General’s office would not have a role in an investigation of officer conduct, but that the State’s Attorney or the Vermont Human Rights Commission may be able to step in if called upon. For now, though, decisions about officer wrongdoing will continue to fall to police leaders. “I’ve done a lot of internal investigations and I have a good track record,” Foley said. “I rely on my expertise … If (an officer) violates our rules, policies or the law, then they have to face the consequences.” — Jason Starr
Observer photo by Al Frey
Students line up to receive individual recognition during CVU graduation on June 12 at the Champlain Valley Exposition. More photos on pages 5 and 16.
All district schools to raise Black Lives Matter flag Friday
In a letter to the community Wednesday morning, the Champlain Valley School Board announced that all district schools will raise Black Lives Matter flags concurrently on Friday. At Williston Central School and Allen Brook School, the flag-raising will occur at 8:40 a.m., and a moment of silence will be observed at 8:46 a.m. The community is invited to observe and participate. Facial coverings and physical distancing are encouraged. “We have failed to effectively address racism in our district and therefore we have failed you,” the board wrote in the letter. “We recognize that raising this flag is only the beginning and that true, systemic change must happen to ensure that Black, Indigenous, Students of Color (BISOC) have the same opportunities, are treated with the same respect and are shown the same love as their white
Observer photo by Al Frey
This flag currently hanging in the lobby at CVU will be raised on Friday.
counterparts.” The flag-raising at CVU High School will be preceded by a ceremony starting at 8 a.m. The events coincide with June-
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