Seniors

Graduation Day | Inclement Weather | Conduct | Parking | Photos | Reminders 

Graduation on Friday, June 5th, 2026

• East Ridge will hold their commencement ceremony on Friday, June 5th, 2026 at 11:00AM at TCO Performance Center in Eagan, MN.
• Handicap or Limited Mobility seating will be available for anyone who needs it.
• Seniors MUST report 60 minutes before the ceremony, dressed in their cap & gowns. Please leave all valuables at home or in your vehicles.
• Guests should arrive early for parking and seating.
• We also will be showcasing our live video feed of the commencement ceremony through YouTube Live.
• A professional photographer will be present at the graduation ceremony to take formal pictures of the ceremony and of each graduate as they receive their diploma. Photos will be online 7-10 days after the ceremony. No obligation to purchase. 

Questions about the ceremony reach out to Assistant Principal, Elicia Buzinec, ebuzinec@sowashco.org OR 651-425-2309.

Conduct at Commencement

Commencement is considered the most formal and public of our educational ceremonies. Our seniors are celebrating the successful completion of 13 years of education. Friends and relatives are invited to honor and celebrate this achievement. We ask all who attend commencement to abide by the following guidelines:

• The Commencement ceremony will be conducted with appropriate dignity and decorum. Do not bring air horns, whistles or any loud noise makers to the ceremony. Balloons are also not allowed. The use of these items distracts from the dignity of the ceremony.
• We discourage large purses or bags in order to ensure comfortable seating for all attendees. 
• Children are to remain seated with an adult (not on laps).

• Students/Graduates: All seniors who are eligible to take part in the commencement ceremony are encouraged to participate. It should be noted that participation in the commencement ceremony is not mandatory nor a condition for the completion of graduation requirements. On graduation day, seniors should report to the Ticketmaster gate at TCO in Eagan by 10:00am to check-in. Seniors are to arrive in ceremony attire, and in cap and gown. All students will be asked to open their gown to check for appropriate attire and appearance before the lineup and processional begins. Commencement is a formal activity and serves as the school district's public acknowledgement of high school completion. The cap and gown are formal educational attire and are not to be altered for the ceremony. In addition, it is encouraged that all seniors participating in the commencement activity dress appropriately, with recommended attire to be worn as follows:

  • Dress Code: Collared shirt, dress slacks, slacks, dresses, dress socks, dress shoes (no recreational shoes such as sneakers, flip-flops, etc., flats are recommended over high-heels).

Parking

Information about parking will be provided in the coming months prior to graduation. 

TICKETS & PROGRAM FOR GRADUATION

Each senior will get (10) tickets for graduation.

• Students will get their tickets AFTER graduation practice on June 4th in their graduation packet.
• Students will get 4 physical copies of the graduation program AFTER graduation practice on June 4th in their graduation packet.
• We will not have extra graduation programs at the venue, but a link will be available to view it on cell phones during the program.
• If a student is seeking additional tickets to graduation, they should work with friends to see if they have any additional tickets.

Photos

Commencement attendees are asked to REMAIN SEATED during the ceremony. Parents and families may take photographs from your seat while sitting, and before or after the ceremony. We have contracted with a photographer to take professional photographs of each graduate during the commencement ceremony.

All graduates are photographed as they cross the stage at commencement. Photos are normally available for viewing within 7-10 days following the ceremony.  Information on how to access photos will be sent to seniors and their families directly when they are available.

Reminders

• Seniors should not bring purses, cameras, bags, etc., to the ceremony. We will have a secure place to store car keys and cell phones. Beverages, beach balls, signs, or any other items that may distract from the formal ceremony are not allowed.
• Chemical Use - Students who arrive with any indication that they have used alcohol or drugs will not be permitted to participate. The student will be detailed by ERHS administration and TCO Security Staff.
• Smoking - TCO is a tobacco-free campus. Students and spectators are not permitted to smoke on the premises.
• Disruptive Behavior - Disruptive behavior is defined as including but not limited to, loud and abusive verbal language or the unwillingness to respond directly or appropriately to administrative directions. These actions will be considered evidence of unruly behavior. Such conduct will be the basis for removal from the ceremony.

SECURITY

All guests will need a ticket for entrance and will go through metal detectors for security purposes.

Below is a list of prohibited items:

• Animals (except service animals)
• Air Horns/Noisemaking devices
• Helium balloons
• Balls (beach balls, footballs, baseballs, etc.)
• Banners or signs exceeding 24” x 36”
• Boxes, wrapped gifts or items
• Coolers of any kind, including small soft packs
• Confetti poppers
• Externally-powered heated blankets**
• Fireworks
• Illegal drugs
• Laser pointers
• Markers (permanent) and/or paint
• Objects that can be used as a missile or projectile
• Offensive or profane signage
• Pepper spray or mace (aerosol or gel)
• Smoking devices (vape pens, e-cigars, tank systems, etc.)
• Sticks, selfie sticks, and flag poles
• Tobacco products
• Weapons
• All other items deemed prohibited at the discretion of stadium management
• Bags, Backpacks, purses, clutches are all subject to screening/search
• If you need to have a bag, bring the smallest possible
• The only bags allowed in are smaller than 12” x 6” x 12”
• We would prefer they are clear plastic, vinyl, or tote bags
• ** All fans and items are subject to screening upon entry by security personnel

• September 25: REQUIRED Senior Student Meeting - 2:21-3:06 pm - LOFT Stage. Presentation found here
• September 25: Senior Family Night (Including Financial Aid Information) - 6:30-8:00 pm - LOFT Stage
• November 13: Senior Panoramic Picture, 8:30 am, Gym
• November 18: Deadline to submit Senior Portrait. Directions to upload portraits found here.
• December 13: Deadline to order Caps and Gowns. Order link here
• January 8: Deadline to submit Senior Baby Recognition Ad 
• March 26: REQUIRED - Senior Student Meeting - 2:21-3:06 pm - LOFT Stage
• April 15: Senior class speaker/Student leader speaker applications open - send to Ms. Buzinec
• April 30: Senior class speaker applications closed
• April 22-April 24: Seniors will vote on class speaker and staff speaker for graduation
• April 30: REQUIRED - Senior Student Meeting - 2:21-3:06 pm - LOFT Stage 
  • GRADUATION FEES ($30) OPEN
  • Honor Stole notifications sent to student Google Apps emails 
• May 4: Senior Choice Day - Outside of Counseling Office
• May 12: Senior Awards Night, 7:00 pm - LOFT Stage
• May 15:
  • GRADUATION FEES ARE DUE- Link to Pay Fees
  • Outstanding fees due
  • Honor Stole fee due
    • Students will only have the option to keep Stoles.  We will not collect them or reimburse after graduation.
• May 23: Senior Survey Due
• May 26: Academic Holds Implemented for all classes (including online)
• May 27-30: Yearbook Distribution - before school, during C Lunch, or after school
• June 2: Last Academic Day for Seniors
• June 3: Cap and Gown Distribution (Students will also return Chromebooks and textbooks, pay any late fees, and then pick up their Cap and Gown). Enter through Activity Center Doors- 9:00am - 1:00pm
• June 4: Graduation Practice (Gymnasium) - 9:30 am
  • Senior Picnic - after Graduation Practice - approximately 11:00 am       
• June 5: Commencement Ceremony at TCO Performance Center in Eagan, MN (11:00 am)
  • Senior Party - 10:30 pm-5:00 am - For more information go to https://erhsseniorparty.com/

Seniors will pick-up their cap and gown on Tuesday, June 3rd. Students may arrive at anytime between 9:00 am-1:00 pm. It usually takes about 25-30 minutes to go through the entire process.

To ease the process, we have recommended times for students to stop by based on their last names:

• 9:00-10:00 am - Last Name A-F
• 10:00-11:00 am - Last Name G-L
• 11:00 am-12:00 pm - Last Name M-S
• 12:00-1:00 pm - Last Name T-Z

Follow these steps:

1. Enter through the Activities Entrance
2. Go to the Track
3. Start by checking in with the counselors to make sure you have completed your Senior Survey
4. Counselors will check to see if you are on an academic hold
5. Turn in any textbooks/pay missing fines
6. Turn in your chromebook & charger (please remove stickers from your chromebook)
7. Make sure your graduation fee is paid
8. Get your cap and gown

**NOTE: Seniors must be cleared from all academic holds, outstanding fines, senior survey, etc. prior to receiving their caps and gowns!

• Graduation Fee: $30

• Honors Stole Fee (for selected students): $25 
  • Students will be notified if they have earned an honor stole on April 29th Students must check their SoWashCo Google Apps email for their notification. If a student has the option of accepting the Honor Stole, and must pay a fee of $25.  
    • Students will keep the honor stole as a keepsake this year, no refunds will be given.  We will not collect stoles and/or reimburse students for them.

Cap & gown measurements will be taken/submitted by students after the Sept. 25th Senior Meeting.

Students who have received an Academic Letter (GPA of 3.5 or above through Trimester 2) all four years of high school will receive a Golden Raptor pin that can be worn during the commencement ceremony.

Students who are active members of the following Honors Societies will be allowed to wear an additional tassel during the ceremony. Recognized honor societies include: Health Occupation Students of America, International Thespian Society, National Art Honors Society, National Honors Society, National Speech & Debate Society and Tri-M Honors Society.

In order to wear a specific stole or cords during the graduation ceremony, Clubs/Activities must:

1. Be a Nationally Recognized Club/Activity
2. Set an acceptable attendance %
3. Meet event participation/volunteer requirements
4. Request approval from the graduation committee by April 25 of the current school year 

**Once approved criteria will be posted on the club/activity website**

• Search your school email for “Parchment”. 
• Select one of the multiple emails sent at the beginning of the year and follow the instructions. 
• You do not need to complete your profile completely.
• Use your school email and add your personal email later!
• You will need to request your final transcript after April 2nd of your senior year through Parchment for all colleges and NCAA needs - select hold for grades
• This allows you to track delivery/downloading of all transcripts 

• Seniors can pick up their student ID cards from the ERHS main office, once they are printed and ready for pick up.
• More will be shared once they are ready.

Mandatory Commencement Practice - June 4th - 9:30 am

• All seniors participating in the Commencement Ceremony MUST report for commencement practice at 9:30 am in the gym.
• Be on time!
• Graduation practice is mandatory. 
• Practice takes approximately 1.5 hours.
• The Senior Picnic will take place right after graduation practice

Optional graduation items can be purchased here through Jostens.

• Announcements: Students have the option to order graduation announcements through Jostens. These announcements feature our school crest on custom paper. It will also include specific information regarding the date, time and place of your ceremony. Ordering announcements is not required.
• Class Rings & Tags: Proudly display your graduation in timeless fashion with Jostens class rings. Seniors have the opportunity to purchase a customized, commemorative class ring or tag from Jostens.
• Apparel: Show your senior pride with quality senior apparel designed to match your style. Product availability varies by school.
• Photo Cards: Photo cards are used to add personality to announce your graduation. Photo cards add a personal touch to your announcement package.

The Senior All-Night Party is an independent event that is organized and run the parents of ERHS students. Staff or Administration are not responsible for this event. 

Check out our website for more details and to order your tickets!

Once you gradate, in August graduated seniors will no longer have access to their school provided Googles Apps account. Make sure you download/copy the files you want to keep onto another device not owned by the District. After August, there will be no means of retrieving them. Follow the steps below:

1. Using the device you want to download them to, log onto your Google Drive.
2. Click on the file you want to save and download. (To download multiple files, press Shift or Control ("Command" on a Mac) while clicking other files.)
3. Right-click and select Download.

Note: Dragging a file from Google Drive to your desktop will NOT download it. Be sure to follow the steps above. 

Parents must review their senior's meal account balance to determine what to do with any funds that remain in their student's account after graduation. Be sure to remove any automatic payments made to your student's account. More information can be found here.

Senior Parents -- Please plan to attend the Senior Parent/Financial Aid & FAFSA Information Night! Important information regarding senior year deadlines, review of graduation requirements, graduation logistics, and college application overview will be presented. There will be guest speakers presenting timely and valuable information about financial aid and the FAFSA.

• Senior Family/Financial Aid & FAFSA Information Night will be held on September 25th, from 6:30-8:30 pm.

Senior Student Meetings will take place during R&R Time for the 2025-26 school year (in the Loft Stage). The presentations will be posted below shortly after each meeting date listed below. If students have questions regarding the information presented, they should contact their counselor or administration.

• Thursday, September 25, 2025 - During R&R Time (2:21-3:06 pm)
  • Cap & gown sizing information will be presented at this meeting. Seniors are asked to go here to submit their Cap and Gown sizes. The presentation covered can be found here.  Questions, please see Ms. Buzinec in the main office.
• Thursday, March 26, 2026 - During R&R Time (2:21-3:06 pm)
• Tuesday,  April 30, 2026 - During R&R Time (2:21-3:06 pm)

Student Leader speaker and class-elected student speaker will speak during the commencement ceremony. Additionally, the senior class will also elect a staff member to address their class.

• Order a yearbook here!
• Senior Portrait Upload Link: https://photos.jostens.com/RBRLQ4

Senior Portraits – due November 18^th:

Parents and students of 2026 senior class – East Ridge High School - We have a NEW process in place for submitting your senior portrait for the 2026 yearbook. The following information regarding submission of senior portraits is very important, so please read it carefully! The deadline for submitting your senior portrait is TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18th, 2025. If a senior portrait is not uploaded via link and steps below by November 18th, your student’s Jostens school portrait will be used instead, if a portrait is available. Plan ahead; pictures should be taken by early September to give your photographer time to prepare your photo for the yearbook.  Students may choose their own photographer to shoot their senior portrait for the yearbook.

 Please inform your photographer of the following criteria:

·   JPEG file format is preferred

·   Photo quality needs to be 300 DPI or higher for actual image size

              (A high-resolution photo is needed for printing purposes)

·   Portrait should be a vertical head-and-shoulder shot.  Horizontal photos will NOT be accepted.

·   Simple, neutral backgrounds look best in the yearbook.

·   File size NOT to exceed 50 MB. Very important!

We realize that the more formal, head-and-shoulders shot may not be your favorite pose or the one you choose to exchange with friends, but these guidelines will ensure consistency in the yearbook.

See senior portrait example below:

 ·   The senior portraits section of the yearbook will include a senior portrait with the student's name.

Online submission process:

Click on QR code or link to get started:  https://photos.jostens.com/RBRLQ4

• Follow the prompts
• Add contact information first.  This is the person submitting the portrait and typically a parent or             photographer.
• Enter verification code sent to your email address
• Review guidelines
• Choose one photo to be uploaded to PORTRAITS.
• Next, you will tag the photo with the student's first name, last name and grade 12.
• Double check spelling of student’s full name.  Click on ADD>CONTINUE>DONE.
• Checkmark acknowledgement and click on SUBMIT

You will receive a confirmation email from Jostens when the portrait submission is completed. 

If you do not receive a confirmation email, please check your junk or Spam folder.  Confirmation comes from donotreply@jostens.

Senior Recognition Ads – due by January 7th: 
 Direct Link to Purchase Senior Ads: https://www.jostens.com/apps/jcom/router.mvc?affiliateId=1763180

LivesTREAM Link for 2026 Commencement

East Ridge High School Commencement
Livestream Begins on June 9 at 4:00 p.m.

EAST RIDGE HIGH SCHOOL (ERHS)

2 p.m. | Sunday, June 4, 2023
Aldrich Arena
Watch Livestream

EAST RIDGE HIGH SCHOOL (ERHS)

2 p.m. | Sunday, June 5, 2022
East Ridge High School Stadium
Watch Livestream