Due to forecasts of near record-breaking temperatures this weekend, the Knoxville Community School District has changed the location of the 2018 graduation ceremony from the high school gymnasium to the Knoxville Performing Arts Center.

Although the move will provide a safer and more comfortable air-conditioned environment for the ceremony, the KPAC does not have the same seating capacity as the gym. Superintendent Cassi Pearson tells KNIA/KRLS News it was a tough decision to make, but safety for graduates and guests is the top priority. Knoxville Fire Department Chief Jim Mitchell tells KNIA/KRLS News he knows from personal experience the gym can get hot, even in the winter, so he completely agrees with the decision to move it to an air-conditioned venue. Each senior will be provided with six tickets for family members and friends to watch the ceremony in person, with overflow guests watching a live stream from the choir room and media center. The Knoxville Community School District asks seniors who do not plan to use all six tickets to turn them into the school office so that they can be shared. The graduation ceremony is still scheduled for 2pm Sunday.

Originally published 2:57 p.m. Wednesday