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large high school graduation ceremonies are canceled

, communities around Minnesota are finding ways to honor the class of 2020.

In Austin, organizers of the annual ArtWorks festival are offering a chance for seniors to see their name in big letters on the historic Paramount Theatre.

"We don't have any shows to promote on our marquee because everything's shut down,” said Laura Helle, executive director of Austin Area Arts. “And so we thought, you know, this will be something very special that only the class of 2020 would get — the chance to have their name on the marquee and come take a photo of it.” 

Seniors will have a designated time when their name will be on display. Those interested in making an appointment should call 507-434-0934.  

 for graduates. The events start Tuesday and continue through May 29.

Helle said that since this summer's ArtWorks festival may not happen, they're looking for ways to boost community spirit in a safe way.

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The graduating class of 2020 in Austin may not get a traditional high school ceremony. Instead, they will get their name on the marquee of the historic Paramount Theatre. 

Courtesy of Austin Area Arts

Graduating student underneath theater marquee. 

Daily dose of sweetness: Grads to get top billing at Austin theater

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