As the 2026 graduating class of John F. Hodge High School wraps up the school year, there are plenty of events in store for seniors to participate in before walking the stage. 

Seniors will need to turn in their iPads and chargers in the library on Thursday, May 7. Any fines or fees students have will need to be paid to the office by 1 p.m. on Thursday, May 11. Seniors must have all fees and fines paid to participate in the graduation ceremony.

Kicking off the week is the senior barbecue on Monday, May 11 at 11 a.m. in St. James Park. The class of 2026 will be able to celebrate the end of the year and staff will serve lunch. On Tuesday, May 12 seniors will travel to Sullivan to see a movie.

Wednesday, May 13 is a busy day of events. Decision Day is at 11:30 a.m., the senior slideshow is at 1:30 p.m., Baccalaureate is at 6 p.m. and Senior Awards will follow at 7 p.m.

Baccalaureate is a ceremony and special service held for the graduating class and will be in the auditorium. Attendance is not mandatory, but students are encouraged to attend to celebrate their time in school together coming to an end.

Seniors should be in the atrium by the art rooms no later than 5:45 p.m. in caps and gowns. There will be a processional, invocation, guest speaker, benediction and a recessional as part of the program.

Senior Awards will be after Baccalaureate and are also held in the auditorium to celebrate the achievements of the students.

Graduation practice is on Thursday, May 14 at the football field. Seniors should arrive by 7:30 a.m. and be in the stands by 8 a.m. sharp in caps and gowns for the class picture. 

The graduating kindergarten class will walk on the field with the seniors, and then the seniors will take to the halls of Lucy Wortham James Elementary School in their caps and gowns.

Graduation is on Friday, May 15 at 7 p.m. at the football field. Seniors need to arrive by 6 p.m. In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will be moved indoors to the middle school gym.

For the graduates, professional interview attire (dress clothes) are encouraged. Tassels should be worn on the right side and will be switched to the left side upon graduating.

Senior choir members will perform the national anthem during the ceremony.

Diplomas and senior packets will be ready for pickup starting at 12 p.m. on Monday, June 8 at the high school counselor’s office.