FAQs

We've had several folks asking about graduation and tickets to attend graduation, so I thought I'd post out some info to answer those common questions.

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GRADUATION SEATING AND TICKETS

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How many tickets do graduates get?

All graduates will receive 10 tickets for commencement. In 2022, we didn't require tickets, a few parents complained because the gym filled up so fast that they didn't get a seat and had to watch from the overflow area in the cafeteria. We felt that was unfair, so we decided that tickets were the best way to guarantee that the closest family members had seats in the gym was to issue tickets. 

What happens if we need more than 10 tickets?

Due to the limited space in the gym, we can't give extra tickets out. If a graduate doesn't need all 10 tickets, they are encouraged to give them to others who may need extras.

Can others attend without a ticket?

Yes, a ticket simply guarantees that you'll have a seat in the gym,  but we will have an overflow area in the cafeteria with a live stream of the ceremony. Folks without tickets can watch from home, or watch from the cafeteria, then meet back up with the rest of your graduation party to take pictures and watch the fireworks.

Do you have accommodations for family who can't climb stairs?

Yes. For family members who can't climb stairs, or who need to be seated near the sign language interpreter, they can request special seating. I will send out a Google form after spring break for graduates to request floor seating. For every person who requests floor seating, you will receive 2 floor seats, so they can sit with a family member or helper. While we'd love to allow the entire party to sit on the floor, we don't have enough room for that. Also, we will have extra handicapped parking and a special early entrance so that those folks can find their seats early without having to navigate the crowd.

Do handicapped seating tickets count in my 10 tickets?

Yes. If you request a floor seat for a family member, you will receive 8 normal tickets, and 2 floor seating tickets.

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GRADUATION PRACTICE

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When is graduation practice?

The last day for the Class of 26 is Thursday, May 21st. Graduation practice will be on the morning of May 22nd, and will last from 8:00am - 11:00am. Practice takes longer because we also take graduation portraits that morning.

Is graduation practice required?

Yes. If you are planning to participate in the graduation ceremony on Friday evening, you are required to be at grad practice. The only exception to that is for state track meet participants. Since they will be at the state track meet that morning, team teachers will make sure that they are up to speed and ready for graduation.

What is the dress code for graduation practice?

Graduates are required to wear their cap and gowns as well their graduation attire at practice. This is because we want to make sure that all graduates have proper graduation attire, and also because we are taking grad portraits (including the full class of 26 portrait) at practice. If ANY graduate needs help with proper attire, speak to Mr. Laymon or Mrs. Hensley in the YSC and we will make sure that you have proper attire. No graduate should be left out of the celebration because they don't have proper attire. We'll get you taken care of, just talk to us.

What happens if I have outstanding fees?

Per board policy, students with outstanding fees aren't allowed to participate in graduation practice or the ceremony. Please get all fees paid prior to May 21st. If students bring fee money on the morning of graduation practice, you will delay practice for the entire class, and cause us to be there longer than necessary. If you need financial assistance with outstanding fees, please contact Tammy Williams, our bookkeeper, as there may be assistance available.