What You Need to Know About Graduation in Troy

Graduation Day is fast approaching, and if you're like most parents, you likely have some last-minute questions. To help you out, here's everything we could find out about high school graduation here in Troy.

Special thanks to Kerry Birmingham of for her assistance in compiling this list.

When

Both and will hold commencement ceremonies on Saturday, June 9. Athens' ceremony is at 11 a.m. and Troy High's ceremony is at 3 p.m.

Where

Both commencement ceremonies will take place at the Oakland University Athletics Center O’Rena (2200 N. Squirrel Road, Rochester).

Directions

Take Rochester Road north to ramp on right to M-59 West toward Pontiac.  At exit 41, take ramp on right and follow signs for Squirrel Road.  Turn right on Squirrel Road.  Turn right onto Pioneer Drive and follow Pioneer Drive to the Athletics Center O’Rena.

Parking

Parent and guest parking is free and available in Structure P29 or Lot P26 near the O’Rena on Pioneer Drive.

Tickets

All attendees for both graduation ceremonies must have tickets. Athens students receive seven tickets at graduation rehearsal on June 5; Troy High students receive six tickets per student at graduation rehearsal on June 6.

Seating

Seating is on a first come, first serve basis, so it's best to arrive as early as possible. Seating begins one hour before commencement. Those with disabilities should arrive at least 45 minutes early to secure approrpiate seating.

Dress code

At both commencement ceremonies, a cap and gown is required for students to participate. Graduation caps should be straight so that the top is parallel to the ground. Cap tassels are hung on the right before the ceremony.

At Athens' commencement, girls are encouraged to wear white or pale colors and dress shoes while boys should wear dark dress pants, solid color shirts with ties, dress shoes and socks.  Students keep their cap and gown, honor cord, medallion and pins. National Honor Society collars must be returned.

At Troy High's graduation, girls should wear a dress skirt, blouse and dress shoes; no slacks, shorts or corsages allowed. Boys should wear dress slacks, a dress shirt, tie and dress shoes.

Taped signs on top of caps are also not allowed.

Photos and video

A professional photographer, Fox Studio, will be on hand to take photos of students as they receive their diplomas; photos will be available for purchase from Fox Studios. Family members may take pictures/videos during the ceremony, but it should not interfere with the ceremony.

Those who pre-register to view their photos online will receive a $5 credit offer on their print order. For Athens students, click here to pre-register; for Troy High students, click here to pre-register.

Videos of both graduation ceremonies will be available from TSTV. The Athens 2012 Commencement will also be cablecast on June 11 and 13 at noon and 7 p.m. on Comcast Channel 19 and WOW Channel 15.

Speakers

At Athens' commencement, honor graduate James Sterba and Senior Class President Lisa Lavelanet have been selected to address the class. Student Congress President Rasika Karnik will lead the seniors in the Tassel Ceremony.

At Troy High's commencement, class president Austin Laduke, Alexander Vincent, Michael Mendola and Christopher Michael will address the class.

No distractions

It is important that graduates contribute to the dignity, solemnity and respect for the ceremony. Accordingly, air horns, loud catcalls and shouting are not appropriate, and blow-up toys like beach balls are not allowed.

All-Night Party

The All Night Party for Athens graduates will be held at Athens High School.  Tickets are available at graduation rehearsal for $65 or at the door for $80. The All Night Party runs from 10 p.m. June 9 until 5:30 a.m. June 10.

The All-Night Graduation Party for Troy High graduates will be held at Troy High School. Tickets are $75 through June 8 and then $100 (cash only) at the door. Only those students who have met the requirements to participate in Commencement Exercises will be permitted to attend. Doors open at 10 p.m., and students must arrive before 11 p.m. or they will not be admitted.