As the final stretch for seniors begins, it also means one of the most anticipated events of the year is approaching: graduation. The event is known for being held on South’s prestigious front lawn, open for all community members to see. This tradition, that dates back to 1927, is currently being set up.
Student activities advisor Melissa Petz has been working with staff and students to put together an amazing graduation like always. They have to start planning as soon as possible to ensure a smooth and steady process. Facing obstacles like rain and last minute changes, Petz is using all the help she can get.
“It’s just all hands on deck, but second semester is really the crunch time for senior honors night and graduation,” Petz said. “We also work with the district office and our board members to find out who will be participating this year.”
Student helper Viviana Cilano ’26 has stepped to help plan. Juniors helping to set up the stage this year will stand on it the next year. She has stepped up tpo the plate, to ensure a smooth set-up for this memorable event./
“Lots of organizing and coordinating with staff and students regarding dates and overall set up is required,” Cilano said. “We always plan an extra day or two for rain delays just so we are prepared for anything. I am helping Mrs. Petz organize graduation by setting up chairs the day of and planning the schedule of graduation.”
Student helper Stella Fry ’26 and peers are hoping to make a seamless and smooth running graduation for the seniors by organizing the timing, chair set up and coordination. Many different factors lead up to the process of set-up. Being reached out months in advance, they have lots of time to prepare for this big event.
“There are a lot of factors that need to be considered when preparing for graduation,” Fry said. “Days before graduation we start to set up the decorations, such as the stage and the chairs the day of. Mrs. Petz also reaches out to the National Honor Society months before the actual date to make sure we have volunteers available to direct guests and make sure everything is under control.”
Rain or shine, this event must take place and that requires a backup date for the ceremony. Petz and administrators have teamed up to come up with a rain date in case the weather interferes with this amazing event. The front lawn of South signifies this traditional event.
“The district as a whole decided to only have this commencement ceremony
Only on the lawn, even if that means spreading it out over two days or having a planned on date and then a rain date,” Petz said. “As a result, we kind of have to pivot real quick. By ten o’clock, the principal will make the call if we are going to have the ceremony that day or if it’s going to be the next day.”
