PACT Secondary Campus

Red Rose Presentation: As part of a longstanding PACT tradition, graduates will present a red rose to their parent or guardian during the ceremony as a symbol of love and gratitude.

Red and Black Cords: In previous years, only seniors who attended PACT from kindergarten through grade 12 received a special cord. This year, at the senior class's request, all graduates will receive a cord as a symbol of unity. During the rose ceremony, seniors will give their cords to their parents, who will place them.

Valedictorian and Salutatorian Stole: The valedictorian and salutatorian will wear a gold stole to signify their academic achievement. These items will be distributed with their caps and gowns.

Honors Medallions and NHS Pins: Seniors graduating with honors or highest honors will receive medallions, which will be distributed with their cap and gown. The medallions are unique and commemorative, offering greater significance than traditional cords. National Honor Society members may wear their NHS pin.

Tassels: Tassels will not be distributed at cap and gown pick-up — and for good reason! PACT seniors have a tradition of misplacing or losing them before the ceremony. Since tassels are a special-order item with a '26 charm and there are no extras, we'll attach them right before the ceremony following rehearsal.

Decorations: No additional stoles, cords, or decorations may be worn during the ceremony or in official photos. Seniors may decorate their graduation caps as a personal statement of their accomplishments. 

Cap Toss: At the conclusion of the ceremony, graduates will exit through the lobby to the front lawn for a group cap toss photo. Afterward, graduates are free to leave.

Photography: A professional photographer will capture the event, including each student receiving their diploma and shaking hands with the superintendent. Event photos will be shared via email the week following commencement.

Diplomas: During the ceremony, graduates will receive an empty leather folio. Diplomas will be available for pick-up in the school office in June, after grades are entered and final transcripts are updated. PSEO grades are often submitted to PACT several weeks after finals. Families will be notified when diplomas are ready for pick-up.

Decorations on graduation caps (mortar boards) symbolize pride and accomplishment. The decorations can represent personalized statements about accomplishments, such as a quote, image, symbol, flag, or other object.

To ensure that commencement exercises remain a dignified celebration of achievement for all students, the following rules must be followed when decorating caps for graduation:

Cap Decorating Guidelines

We want Commencement to be a joyful and respectful celebration for every graduate and their families. Here are some ways we can all help make it special:

• Applaud respectfully. Cheers are welcome, but please wait until all names have been read so every graduate can be heard and honored.
• Honor our speakers by staying seated and attentive during student and faculty speeches.
• Stay seated during the ceremony and avoid going up to the stage or blocking aisles for photos. We have a professional photographer capturing the evening, and the venue has beautiful outdoor areas for photos after the ceremony.
• No noisemakers. Air horns and similar devices are not allowed.
• No confetti or glitter. Period. 
• Balloons: Latex balloons are not allowed because of a severe allergy in our community. Please leave non-latex balloons in your car or the lobby until after the ceremony so photographers have a clear view.