NewsLine staff
The Nassau County School Board unanimously approved a policy Thursday night allowing graduating seniors with verified military enlistments to wear authorized military stoles, cords and regalia during commencement ceremonies, according to a recent release.
The policy, proposed by School Board Vice Chair Joe Zimmerman, formally recognizes students who commit to military service while preserving ceremonial standards of graduation exercises, said the release.
“This is about respect for service, respect for tradition, and for the significance of the commitment these young men and women are making,” Zimmerman said in the release. “When a student raises their right hand and volunteers to serve this country, that decision deserves to be acknowledged by the community they represent.”
Zimmerman noted the policy aligns with existing Florida law, including Senate Bill 292, which protects the right of students to wear their military dress uniforms at graduation, the release said. Similar policies have been adopted by other Florida school districts.
“This policy is about bringing clarity and consistency to an issue where Florida has already set a clear direction,” Zimmerman said.
The approved policy establishes clear guidelines for eligibility and authorized regalia, ensuring military recognition is handled respectfully and uniformly across Nassau County schools, according to the release.
Board members emphasized the importance of honoring students who choose to serve while maintaining the integrity of graduation ceremonies, said the release.
Zimmerman thanked fellow board members, district staff, veterans, parents and community members who provided input during the process.
“This unanimous vote shows that honoring military service is something our community can come together around,” he said. “I’m proud of the Board for standing behind our students and the values this county holds dear.”
The policy takes effect beginning with the next graduating class, stated the release.
