Columbia High School is planning to host an in-person Graduation ceremony on Saturday, June 25 at 10:00 a.m. in the McDonough Sports Complex at Hudson Valley Community College.

Graduation Details:

• Saturday, June 25 at 10:00 a.m. in the McDonough Sports Complex at Hudson Valley Community College
• Tickets will not be dispersed as their is sufficient seating capacity for all students and their families
• Masks are optional
• There is a mandatory rehearsal on Friday, June 24 at 10:00 a.m. in the Columbia Auditorium. At that time, graduating students will receive their caps and gowns.
• Graduation will be live streamed for free at www.egcsd.org

FAQ: Graduation

Q: When will students receive their cap and gowns?
A: Cap and gown distribution is scheduled for Friday, June 24 immediately after the MANDATORY graduation rehearsal. Students who have not ordered a cap and gown should call Melissa at Jostens (800-976-1787) to order one IMMEDIATELY. Students are required to wear a cap and gown if they wish to participate in the graduation ceremony. If a cap and gown order is not placed by Friday, May 20, we cannot guarantee that students will receive the correct apparel for graduation.

NOTE: Students will not receive their caps and gowns if they are on the CHS debt list (they have not returned school books or uniforms or have an outstanding balance on their cafeteria meal account). The debt list is posted during Regents Week. Students will need to resolve all debts BEFORE the rehearsal on June 24th.

Q: Is there a graduation rehearsal?
A: Yes, there is a MANDATORY graduation rehearsal. This will be held at on Friday, June 24 at 10:00 a.m. in the CHS auditorium. Students will need to provide their own transportation as there are no buses on this day.

Q: Why is attendance at the graduation rehearsal mandatory?
We want to make sure the ceremony is a dignified, memorable event for graduating seniors and their families. During the rehearsal we will make every attempt to be sure the student’s name is pronounced correctly and that the student understands appropriate graduation behavior.

Q: Will students be receiving tickets for this year’s graduation?
A: Tickets will not be dispersed this year. There is enough seating at HVCC for anyone who wishes to attend the ceremony.

Q: When is graduation?
A: Graduation will be held on Saturday, June 25 at 10:00 a.m. at the Hudson Valley Community College’s (HVCC) McDonough Sports Complex.

Q: What is the length of the graduation ceremony?
A: The ceremony lasts approximately two hours.

Q: What should students wear under their robes?
A: Appropriate attire should be worn under the student’s gown. Light colored dress attire should be worn (dresses/dress pants). Students need to climb and descend stairs and appropriate footwear should be worn. Flip-flops are not appropriate and have caused students to fall down the stairs in past ceremonies.

Q: What time do students need to be at HVCC for the ceremony?
A: Students must be in the Ice Rink at the McDonough Sports Complex by 8:30 a.m.

Q: How early should guests arrive?
A: Guests should arrive no earlier than 8:30. Doors will open at 9:00 a.m. for seating.

Q: Are face masks required at graduation?
A: Face masks will be optional.

Q: What are the parking procedures?
A: Free parking is available at HVCC. Please follow signs for the McDonough Sports Complex.

Q: When will students in the National Honors Society (NHS) receive their gold cords?
A: Students will receive their gold cords at the mandatory graduation rehearsal on June 24th. Students who may be receiving cords for other honor societies or activities will receive them from their club advisors.

Q: When will students receive their diplomas?
A: VERY IMPORTANT: Students will receive a blank diploma holder at the ceremony. Immediately after the ceremony the students must pick up their diplomas from their guidance counselors at tables set up by the main exit of the building.