Parent and Student Information
  The Graduation Guide
 Group walking in graduation gowns
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Group walking in graduation gowns
Planning

Give the graduate a say in party planning
Celebrate graduation with a party! Whether you prefer a simple family get-together or a large bash, its best to plan ahead. Let the guest of honor dictate what type of party to have. The graduate can start by answering the following questions:
  • What kind of graduation celebration do you have in mind?
  • Shall we invite just our close relatives and a few friends, or do you want a huge party?
  • Would you like to have a joint party with a friend or neighbor?
  • Do you have any ideas for a theme?
  • What kind of food would you like to serve?
  • Would you like to select photos and items to display?
  • Shall we have a guest book to sign?
Keep it fun and safe Safety is becoming an increasingly important factor for graduation parties. On the east coast, the traditional "Beach Week" celebration is being replaced by family sponsored parties. That's because graduation season is the peak time of year when young people are involved in alcohol-related auto accidents, often tragically.

Put safety first when planning your party. Design your graduation party so it is free spirited, but "spirit-free". Graduates can have fun and join with friends and family at parent-sponsored and supervised parties.

Don't plan alone! Ask for help. Perhaps you have a relative that makes a great taco bar or is a whiz at hanging up crepe paper streamers. Getting more people involved can make the party even more fun and less work for you.

Divorced parents and party planning Dealing with divorced parents does not have to be an awkward part of graduation celebration planning. Let the graduate take the lead. Follow their wishes. It may be that they would prefer having smaller parties with each parent. Or find a creative way for both sides of the family to join. Remember, the party is about celebrating this very important milestone!

"My ex-wife and I agreed to host a graduation party for our daughter at a nearby park. We both invited the same number of guests and let our daughter invite all of her friends. We shared the expenses and were able to make it a very special day for her." Tom in Memphis, Tennessee

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