Checking the list for graduation
As high school graduation draws nearer and nearer, it is important to remind your students of all the requirements needed for graduation. From projects to clearances to permits, these not only pave their road to marching down the graduation ceremony but also prepare them to be more responsible for themselves.
Graduations are major milestones in the students’ lives.
Reminder 1. Settle the necessary school fees.
It might sound straight from the administration’s mouth, but paying school fees in advance helps take a lot of stress from the minds of the graduating student and his/her family.
For graduating students who will most likely take the final examination in advance, they need to have both academic and financial clearances.
Reminder 2. Apply for graduation.
The word “graduation” itself means completing an academic degree. It is not automatic as it needs the aspiring graduate to apply, depending on the various requirements that differ per high school.
To apply for graduation, they should be absolutely sure that they pass their subjects. Once the list of graduates has been verified, students should check the inclusion of their names on the list and if there is any special award/citation for them. This also entails passing the requirements for the said application, including ID photos, filled-up alumni forms, among others.
Check the graduation announcements all the time to be able to inform your students of the changes in the schedule and last-minute requirements.
Reminder 3. Plan for THE DAY.
After graduating students get the go-signal for the final march, it is time to plan on what to wear, who to thank, where to celebrate and how to culminate four years of learning and friendship.
Some items to remember for the graduation day checklist:
- invitations
- cap and gown rentals
- graduation dress/long-sleeved shirts and slacks
- corsage/bouquet
- ribbons for parents
- program and seating arrangements
- photographer/camera
- graduation details for those with special citations and awards
- party/get together
- and thank you cards
The last item, the thank you cards, are very helpful when it comes to overcoming the nostalgia that usually hits the graduates. They should send one to their mentors, family members, teachers, coaches, friends and spiritual counselors—basically all those who have helped and inspired them throughout their high school years.
For a little help in writing thank you notes, just remind your students to write them by hand, personalize the message, and send them within a month after the graduation.
These graduation preparation details might beat them up to a flurry of activity, but the feel of the diploma in their hands will definitely be worth it.
Sources:
“Commencement.” Retrieved March 12, 2008 from http://www.tuskegee.edu/Global/story.asp?S=1226747
“Graduation Checklist.” Retrieved March 12, 2008 from
http://www.biola.edu/academics/professional-studies/bold/current_students/grad_prep/
Kendrick, Carleton. “High School Seniors say thanks.” Retrieved March 12, 2008 from
http://life.familyeducation.com/teen/communication/36528.html?detoured=1
“Thank you notes.” Retrieved March 12, 2008 from
http://www.jostens.com/graduation/thank_you.asp
(Published 24 March 2008, Smart Schools Program)
