Information on the Class of 2018 Graduation

On Saturday, May 19 District 300 will host three high school graduation ceremonies at the Sears Centre Arena (5333 Prairie Stone Parkway, Hoffman Estates, 60192) as follows:

 

Dundee-Crown High School

Dundee-Crown High School’s graduation ceremony begins at 2:00 p.m.  

All students should plan to arrive at the Sears Centre Arena no later than 1:00 p.m.

 

Hampshire High School

Hampshire High School’s graduation ceremony begins at 6:00 p.m.

All students should plan to arrive at the Sears Centre Arena no later than 5:00 p.m.

 

Jacobs High School

Jacobs High School’s graduation ceremony begins at 10:00 a.m.

All students should plan to arrive at the Sears Centre Arena no later than 9:00 a.m.

 

Future Graduation Dates

 

Graduation Class of 2019

Dundee-Crown High School: May 18, 2019 at 6 p.m.

Hampshire High School: May 18, 2019 at 10 a.m.

Jacobs High School: May 18, 2019 at 2 p.m.

 

Graduation Class of 2020

Dundee-Crown High School: May 16, 2020 at 10 a.m.

Hampshire High School: May 16, 2020 at 2 p.m.

Jacobs High School: May 16, 2020 at 6 p.m.

 

 

 

 

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions for Class of 2018 Graduations

District 300 has compiled the following list of Frequently Asked Questions for parents and families attending a District 300 graduation ceremony. Each high school will send additional school specific information in advance of the ceremony.  

 

When is graduation rehearsal? Is it required graduates attend?

Graduation rehearsals are on each high school’s campus on May 18th, the day before the ceremony and is mandatory for participation of the May 19th graduation ceremony.

*Please note: The Jacobs High School graduation rehearsal occurs on the same day as their senior breakfast. The Jacobs rehearsal begins at 9:00 a.m. the Jacobs senior breakfast begins at 8:00 a.m.

 

When do graduates receive their caps and gowns?

Caps and gowns were distributed to students on the following dates:

Students are required to wear a cap and gown.  Please call Herff Jones as soon as possible at 815-756-4743 if you have not ordered or received your attire.

 

How do graduates receive their cords, medallions, etc. if applicable?

Additional attire beyond caps and gowns will be distributed at either final club meetings (i.e. National Honor Society, AVID, etc.), at Senior Awards, or at graduation rehearsal.

 

May students decorate their caps?

Yes, students may decorate caps as long as they are appropriate.

 

What are the guidelines for student attire under the cap and gown?

Students must arrive properly dressed for the commencement ceremony. Appropriate attire under the cap and gown is required. Athletic wear, jeans, shorts, sneakers or “flip-flops” are not permitted.

 

What behavior policies are in place for graduation?

All District 300 and school policies adhere to the commencement ceremony and will be enforced.  In order to ensure the safety of all attendees and participants, individuals demonstrating disruptive behavior, found in possession (or who are under the influence) of drugs or alcohol, or are using any object that disrupts the graduation ceremony will be subject to immediate ejection from the Sears Centre Arena.

 

What time should graduates arrive at the Sears Centre Arena for the Graduation Ceremony?

All graduates should arrive at least 60 minutes before the start of their graduation time.

• Dundee-Crown graduates should arrive no later than 1:00 p.m.
• Hampshire graduates should arrive no later than 5:00 p.m.
• Jacobs graduates should arrive no later than 9 a.m.

 

Where is the Sears Centre Arena Located?

The Sears Centre Arena is located at 5333 Prairie Stone Parkway, Hoffman Estates, 60192

 

What is the parking process at the Sears Centre Arena?

As attendees enter the Sears Centre Arena parking area, uniformed police officers and attendants will direct traffic.

There are 3,200 on-site parking spots at the Sears Centre Arena. District 300 and the Sears Centre Arena encourages you to arrive early to avoid congestion and tie ups. The lots are accessible off of Prairie Stone Parkway, Hoffman Boulevard, and Pratum Avenue.

 

Is handicapped seating and parking available?

Yes, the Sears Centre is ADA compliant for accessibility including restrooms, parking, drop off lanes, and service counters. Accessible seating is located on the main concourse level.

 

Do I need a ticket to attend graduation?

No, tickets are not required to attend graduation. However, seating is based on a first come, first served basis. District 300 recommends arriving early to secure a good seat.  Students are requested to arrive one hour before their ceremony start time.

 

How long does the graduation ceremony last?

Each graduation ceremony lasts approximately 90 minutes.

 

Will the graduation ceremony be available to watch online?

While graduation will not be streamed live, the graduation ceremony will be recorded and a digital version will be posted on the District 300 website and Facebook page in the days following the commencement ceremony. Schools will also send a link to senior families via email after the ceremony once finalized.

 

Will I be able to purchase a copy of the video from the ceremony?

Yes, the graduation ceremony will be professionally recorded. Each school will provide families information about how to purchase a DVD copy of the ceremony.

 

Can I get up and move closer to take pictures as my child walks across the stage?

While picture taking is encouraged, District 300 asks that all attendees remain in their seats during the graduation ceremony. Attendees will not be permitted on the floor at any time during the commencement ceremony

 

Will professional pictures be taken of the graduates?

For your convenience, District 300 has made arrangements for a professional photographer to photograph graduates receiving their diplomas. Families will receive a proof in the mail after the ceremony. Families are not obligated to purchase photos and will have the option of ordering several photo packages.

 

How are programs distributed at the Sears Centre Arena?

Programs will be distributed to families upon arrival.

 

Where will I meet my graduate after the ceremony?

After the ceremony, parents may meet up with students in the “Parent/Student Meet-Up Area” located on the west side of the Sears Centre Arena main entrance (please see map for further details). Staff will also be available to help families locate the “Parent/Student Meet-Up Area” location.

 

Is there a District or school sponsored reception after the ceremony?

No. Historically families hold private parties after graduation.