BELTON, Texas — The Belton Independent School District announced Thursday night it was postponing its 2024 graduation ceremonies due to the storms that rolled through Bell County.
The ceremonies were set to be held at the Cadence Bank Center on May 23. The district said the storms knocked out power to the facility and it was unknown when power would be restored.
"Our Belton ISD families and staff members have been deeply affected by tonight’s storm and several neighborhoods have sustained devastating damage," Superintendent Dr. Malinda Golden wrote in a letter to parents. "We believe our community needs to focus on caring for their homes and families at this time. It is also important to know that our law enforcement partners and first responders have asked for our assistance to help keep traffic off the road to ensure safety as our cities begin clean-up and restoration."
Golden said the district would share a new graduation date on Thursday and communicate that to parents via email, the district website and social media.
"Graduation is a significant milestone for our students, and we look forward to celebrating with you. We acknowledge the disappointment and inconvenience that this postponement may cause," Golden wrote. "We are a united community that bands together in times of need. This is one of those times to care for those who are hurting across our community."
Businesses, homes and power lines were destroyed or damaged when what appeared to be a tornado rolled through Temple between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m.