Please read and acknowledge the Commencement Participation Agreement: Because the Board believes that completion of the requirements for a diploma from the high school is a significant achievement, the District wishes to recognize that achievement in a publicly celebrated graduation exercise. All seniors who have successfully completed the graduation requirements for a high school diploma and are in good standing may participate in graduation exercises.Whatever graduation requirements are in place at the time a student enrolls in the Timberland High School shal lbe those requirements to which that student shall be held responsible.The graduation ceremony gives formal recognition to the successful completion of four years of high school study. The ceremony should be a formal and solemn expression of this important time in the life of young people. In keeping with this view of graduation ceremonies, the Board believes that appropriate expectations be established to ensure that the ceremony will be conducted in good taste and with courtesy to all who attend. To that end, the Board establishes the following expectations for graduating seniors relative to participation in graduation ceremonies.The Board understands that all seniors may not wish to participate in the graduation ceremonies, therefore, participation will be voluntary.If a senior chooses to participate in the graduation ceremony, the following rules will be in effect: Students must be on time for graduation practice. Students who fail to do so may not be allowed to practice and, therefore, participate in the graduation ceremony. All school rules will be in effect during graduation practice and graduation exercises. Students will be expected to dress appropriately for the graduation ceremony. Specifically, students will not wear shorts, tank tops, sneakers, tennis shoes or sunglasses. Business attire is required. (examples: dresses, skirts, blouses, dress slacks, dress shirts, ties, dress shoes). The student will bear the cost of the cap and gown. Students will be required to conduct themselves with dignity and propriety during graduation exercises. Inappropriate behavior (loud talking, throwing objects, possession and use of fireworks, unusual or unseemly physical conduct, the possession, use or appearance of being under the influence of alcohol or controlled substance, and other disruptive behavior) will not be allowed.Violations of the above expectations may result in the following consequences:Violations of school and graduation rules during graduation practice may result in removal from the practice session and removal from the graduation ceremony.Violations of the above rules during lining up immediately prior to the graduation ceremony may result in removal from the graduation ceremony. Violations during the graduation ceremony or during the processional and recessional may result in students being denied the opportunity to attend the All-Night Drug/Alcohol Free Graduation Party.Both parent and student will be expected to sign a statement accepting the above expectations and consequences as a condition for participation in the graduation ceremony. The principal shall be responsible for arranging appropriate facilities, program, and activities for the graduation ceremonies. By signing this form, this will indicate that I have had an opportunity to review the Wentzville R-IV Board of Education Commencement Policy. I understand that senior participation in the ceremony is voluntary. I also understand that voluntary participation includes the acceptance of all expectations and consequences outlined within the policy. *
