Don't Forget to Register for the ACT/SAT
CCSD seniors are encouraged to register for the ACT/SAT if they have not done so already! These tests are required by most four-year colleges and universities for admission and placement purposes. Although colleges and universities generally accept either test, seniors are encouraged to take both tests, if possible. For more information on the ACT or to register, visit www.actstudent.org. For more information on the SAT and to register, visit www.collegeboard.org.
Graduation
Rules and Regulations for Class of 2009 Commencement
The CCSD Division of Secondary Education has developed guidelines that are to be implemented by all high schools to assure that each graduating class is accorded the respect and dignity that is due at commencement. It is the philosophy of the Clark County School District that graduation ceremonies are designed to honor graduates with commencement exercises that are solemn and dignified. It is also the intent of the guidelines to provide the graduates themselves and the spectators with the understanding that the ceremonies must be conducted with appropriate dignity and solemnity.
Time and Place
Tickets
Student Attire
Graduates are required to wear caps and gowns purchased from Jostens Inc. Under the gowns, graduation attire for boys is a light colored shirt with a collar and dark slacks, socks and shoes. Girls are to wear a normal length dress (gowns will extend only to mid-calf) and appropriate dress type shoes. No bare feet, boots or athletic shoes. Any students not properly attired will not be permitted to participate.
Cameras and Cell Phones
Cameras and picture taking is not allowed on the main floor or stage area of the Thomas and Mack Center. Video cameras and cameras are allowed in the seating area. Cell phones are not permitted during the ceremony. If they are seen, they will be confiscated.
Graduate Behavior
Students who do not behave properly will be removed immediately from the graduation area. Diplomas will not be issued to these students at that time but will be issued to the parents at a conference with the school principal to be requested by the parents and held within 30 days after the commencement ceremony. School personnel are assigned to supervisory responsibilities to assist graduates during the ceremony. Should a student be found to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the ceremony, he/she will be denied the opportunity to participate in the commencement exercises and will be removed from the graduation area.
Mortarboard Throwing
Due to the possibility of injury, the throwing of mortarboards, or any objects, during or at the conclusion of the ceremony is prohibited. Students found guilty of this offense will not receive their diploma or certificate of attendance at the ceremony and will have to schedule a conference with the Principal during the summer.
Demeanor of Spectators
It is expected that all spectators will recognize that this is a dignified and solemn ceremony and will behave in an appropriate manner. Failure to do so will result in the offender(s) being removed by security personnel. Air horns and/or any other noisemakers are expressly forbidden.
Orientation
Senior Fines and Fees
Graduation Rehearsal
Scholar Recognition
Distribution of Diploma Covers
During the ceremony, diploma covers will be presented by school board members or central office administrators. The actual diploma will be given to the student backstage immediately following the ceremony. Graduates will be required to present their cap, with their name written in the inside, in order to receive their diploma or certificate of attendance.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I get my cap and gown?
Do I have to purchase a cap and gown?
Yes. To participate in the ceremony, all graduates must wear a cap and gown purchased from Jostens (no other vendor).
When do I receive my tickets to graduation?
You will receive 10 tickets with your cap and gown.
Do graduates need tickets?
No. Your cap and gown is your ticket.
How do I arrange for more tickets?
Are parents allowed in the area where students line up?
No. There is too much confusion with additional people in the area.
Are people allowed to take pictures in the area of the graduate?
No. Photographs should be taken before the ceremony. One school photographer will be on stage to take pictures of graduates. You will be mailed information regarding ordering copies.
Is there a place to keep a purse?
No. Graduates should have nothing (including flowers, cell phones, and cameras) in their hands when they line up for graduation.
Can my parents give me flowers when I receive my diploma?
No. Graduates and school personnel are the only people on or near the stage.
If a graduate is unable to attend the ceremony can someone take his place?
No.
Where do we go at the Thomas and Mack to line up?
You will enter through the Northwest tunnel area.
How do graduates line up?
Valedictorians and Salutatorians are seated on the stage, along with designated senior students. All remaining graduates are lined up in alphabetical order, with Honor and Advanced Diploma recipients leading the procession, also in alpha order.
What happens if a graduate is disruptive during the ceremony?
Security will escort the graduate out of the Thomas and Mack. His or her diploma will be withheld until a later date.
What happens if a spectator is disruptive during the ceremony?
Security will escort him/her out of the Thomas and Mack. Noisemakers such as air horns, posters, and signs are not allowed.
When do I receive my diploma?
After the ceremony you must show your cap with your name on it at the designated place. Do not throw your cap. NO CAP=NO DIPLOMA.
When and where do I turn in my cap and gown?
You paid for them and may keep them.
Are parents allowed backstage after the ceremony?
No. Arrange to meet your parents in the parking lot.
Do I keep my tassel?
Yes.
Is there a fist aid station available and where?
Yes. In the line up room, a nurse will also be available.
Does Centennial have an after-graduation party or trip?
No. Centennial does not recommend or sponsor any post graduation activities.
Graduation Timeline
May-Senior Check List
• Do not forget the AP tests
• Turn in your final transcript request to Registrar
• Attend all advising days, open houses, orientation programs, and registration offered by your college
• Read books on how to survive in college - physically, emotionally, academically, philosophically, and spiritually
• Last chance to notify your counselor of scholarships or outstanding academic awards that you have received
• Attend awards night and graduation
• Watch calendar for end of school year deadlines
• Send thank you notes to teachers, counselor, and anyone who helped you through the process
• Register online for June ACT, June SAT I, SAT II; Subject Tests
• Check your school's scholarship bulletin and apply for scholarships in which you are qualified - watch due dates
• Start looking for a summer job. You may need the money!
