Some Freeport parents say they weren't let inside Hofstra for their kids' high school graduation

The Freeport School District told News 12 that although there were seats available around 7 p.m., the district said the fire marshal determined that the arena had reached maximum capacity.

News 12 Staff

Jun 23, 2024, 2:32 AM

Updated 102 days ago

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News 12 was told dozens of parents with tickets for Saturday night's Freeport High School graduation at Hofstra University were not let inside the ceremony.
Parents said Nassau police and campus security told them there were no more seats available.
Parents, however, said their kids sent them photos that showed empty seats inside the building.
"I am a ticket holder. My daughter is graduating today and I wasn't able to see her graduate. I am highly upset because what I don't understand that this is a ticketed graduation. Why am I not allowed? And if there are empty seats in this building, why am I not allowed in?" said parent Tiesha Moore.
News 12's Saturday night report on the Freeport High School graduation ceremony at Hofstra University.
Freeport School District Superintendent Dr. Kishore Kuncham issued a statement that says, "The district regrets that some guests were unable to attend tonight’s Freeport High School graduation due to seating capacity limitations set by Hofstra University..."
The statement went on to explain that although there were seats available around 7 p.m., "unfortunately the fire marshal determined that the complex had reached its maximum capacity and were no longer allowing anyone to enter the graduation ceremony."
As far as parents who missed the ceremony, the statement added, "While we understand it is not the same as watching the graduation in person, anyone wishing to watch the graduation may visit the Freeport School District website..."
Chief Fire Marshal Michael F. Uttaro told News 12 that the fire marshals office "does not post the occupancy for the building" and "that number is determined and posted by the Town of Hempstead building commissioner."
The Nassau fire marshal also says public safety officers at Hofstra may have determined the area was at capacity.
News 12 reached out to them for comment but had not heard back as of Sunday night.