SPARK THE JOY!

Graduation Day in Durham Public Schools is a momentous occasion, a time to celebrate the dedication and support that have propelled our students to this significant milestone. The educators, principals and the entire community are committed to assisting each student in reaching this achievement.

Graduation Information

COVID PROTOCOL

For the safety of all attendees, please refrain from attending the graduation ceremony if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms: fever, sustained cough, shortness of breath, chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, new loss of sense of taste or smell, ongoing diarrhea, repeated vomiting, continuous nausea.

TICKETS

Most schools will be able to provide students with up to 10 tickets for guests during Spring graduations in May and June. Ticket numbers are dependent on venue capacity and graduate numbers.

TICKETS FOR CHILDREN

Children aged two and under who will remain seated on an adult's lap for the duration of the graduation ceremony will not require a ticket. Any child who needs a separate seat must have their own ticket.

WHAT NOT TO BRING

To ensure a smooth ceremony, kindly avoid bringing balloons, flowers, signs, noisemakers, or gifts. We will not permit these items inside the venues. Please leave them at home. All bags must be smaller than 5" x 8" x 1". However, diaper bags and medical bags will be allowed. Cameras are permitted, but not the camera bag.

Please click here to see the NCCU clear bag policy.

Attire Essentials

REGALIA

All graduates should wear full regalia for their school, including, but not limited to, a gown, cap, and tassel. Please get in touch with your school if you have any questions regarding regalia and regalia orders.

• Gowns: Neatly press using a cool iron or hang up in a bathroom to allow steam to help wrinkles fall out.
• Caps: Wear straight on the head, with the top flat and parallel to the ground. Please note that decorated caps will not be permitted.
• Tassel: Wear over the right temple before a student graduates.

ACCEPTABLE GRADUATE ATTIRE

The faculty and staff of Durham Public Schools aim to make your graduation a memorable experience. Your full cooperation with the dress code is appreciated. Please check with your principal if you have any questions about appropriate dress.

For students facing extenuating circumstances or extreme hardship preventing them from acquiring an item necessary to meet dress code requirements, please discuss the situation with your school's graduation coordinator or principals before graduation rehearsal.

Acceptable Graduation Attire:

• Dress pants/slacks (no jeans) with a white dress shirt or blouse
• Dress tie or bow tie (if applicable)
• Skirt with a white dress shirt or blouse
• Dress

Additional Details:

• Dark or neutral shoes (no topsiders, boots, bedroom slippers/fuzzy slippers, or athletic shoes). Caution: Heel height should be comfortable for brisk, safe walking up and downstairs. We recommend flat shoes or wedges.
• Dark dress socks and neutral hosiery (i.e., stockings, tights, pantyhose) (if applicable)
• Small stud earrings (no dangling jewelry)
• No jeans
• Decorated caps, purses, and book bags will NOT be allowed in the procession.

GRADUATION DAY ETIQUETTE

• Seniors should always remain quiet and stay in line.
• Balloons, noise makers, and signs are prohibited.
• No gum is allowed.
• Seniors will graduate in alphabetical order by last name.
• Marshals will direct seniors on when to stand and walk to the stage.
• Seniors should stand and sit together simultaneously by row.
• When crossing the stage, seniors will pick up their diploma cover from a table.
• After receiving your diploma cover, continue walking across the stage and smiling at any dignitaries. Go down the steps and return to your seat.
• Remain standing until everyone from your row has returned to their seat.
• After everyone has received their diploma cover, the Superintendent will declare you graduates of Durham Public Schools. At that time, all seniors will turn the tassel on their cap from the right to the left.
• Junior marshals will direct you.