Class of 2027 Senior Experience Series

Kick off your senior year by watching the sunrise with your classmates! Senior Sunrise is a long-standing tradition that gives the Class of 2027 an opportunity to gather before the first day of school, reconnect after the summer, and celebrate the beginning of your final year at RTHS.

We’ll meet at Herndon Park for the 6:35 a.m. sunrise. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and dress comfortably for the morning weather.

We look forward to welcoming the Class of 2027 as the sun rises on an unforgettable senior year!

Supporting Graduation & the Senior Experience

Senior dues support important graduation-related expenses and help create a memorable graduation experience for the Class of 2027. Different than in previous years where families have ordered their graduation regalia on their own, RTHS is collecting the money and placing one large group order with Jostens. Families can shop for additional keepsakes and graduation items in the RTHS Jostens Store.

$100 Senior dues are required for all seniors and include:

• Full graduation regalia (cap, gown, tassel, stole, diploma cover).
• A Downtown Raleigh parking pass for the rehearsal and ceremony.
• Professional photographs and video of the ceremony to download and keep forever.

Seniors who have had a sibling graduate from RTHS in a previous year and are of similar height may use their sibling’s cap, gown, and stole, but must pay seniors dues of $60. This includes:

• 2027 tassel and diploma cover.
• A Downtown Raleigh parking pass for the rehearsal and ceremony.
• Professional photographs and video of the ceremony to download and keep forever.

Seniors who have qualified for the RTHS Assistance Program will have their full dues subsidized by the school, and will participate in the Graduation Prep Day to gather all of their information.

Payment Date: Thursday, September 17, 2026
Payments Accepted: Cash or check/money order made out to Research Triangle High School

During the Graduation Prep Assembly on Thursday, September 17, 2026 from 10:15 – 11:40 am, seniors will:

• Get a brief overview of Graduation 2027.
• Get an overview of all Class of 2027 events.
• Pay their senior dues.
• Get measured for the graduation gown.
• Record their names for their diploma, the graduation program, and any senior gifts.

Senior Portraits

Senior portraits are an important milestone, and the formal tux/drape portrait is the image that Research Triangle High School uses in the yearbook for the Class of 2027.

RTHS partners with CADY for all official senior portraits. Seniors must book and complete a CADY portrait session, even if they choose the free session.

Schedule Your Session

Portrait sessions may be completed:

• At the CADY Studio (5950-A Six Forks Rd., Raleigh, NC 27609), OR
• On campus at RTHS
  • Tuesday, September 22, 2026 (Primary Portrait Day)
  • Tuesday, October 6, 2026 (Make-Up Day)

All appointments must be scheduled in advance at cady.com/schedule.

The final day to be photographed by CADY for inclusion in the yearbook is October 19, 2026.

Session Options

CADY offers several portrait packages to fit different preferences and budgets.

• Free Session – Includes the required tux/drape yearbook portrait.
• $29 Session – Includes portraits in: Tux/Drape, Cap & Gown, Casual Scene
• Additional packages are available with more poses, backgrounds, and photography options at higher price points.

Visit the CADY website for complete package details and pricing.

Important Information

• Booking a session is required to be included in the RTHS yearbook.
• Session fees cover the photography session only.
• Session fees do not include prints, digital images, or any other portrait products, which may be purchased separately through CADY if desired.
• Questions can be directed to Liz Balazs at ebalazs@rthighschool.org. 

Tuesday, September 29th is our Annual College/Career Application Day for Seniors! This is one of our very favorite days of the year and there are a few important things to know so the day will run smoothly (and so you won’t be marked absent!):

• Registration is required in SCOIR no later than Monday, September 28, 2026 at 3:30 p.m.
• College Application Day will run like a normal Tuesday schedule. We’ll start at 8:45 and finish at 3:30 with our normal lunch period.
• You will need to check in with Mrs. O or Ms. Lewis at the start of 1st period to make sure you are counted present for attendance. If you need to go to a class for a test, quiz, etc., just let us know so we know where you are.
• Work spaces include The Finley, the Senior Patio, and the College & Career Center (Gallery 4). There will be classes being held as usual on Tuesday, so we need to be quiet and respectful of the rest of the building.
• This is not mandatory. If you don’t want to work on college and/or career applications, you are welcome to attend class as normal.
• If you do plan to attend, you will be expected to work on applications.
• There will be breakfast and snacks 🥐 🍓

Reach out to Mrs. Overman (soverman@rthighschool.org) with any questions!

Official details coming soon!

Questions about the homecoming game should be directed to Mr. Liotta (jliotta@rthighschool.org) and/or Ms. Soulasinh (asoulasinh@rthighschool.org).

Questions about the homecoming dance should be directed to Ms. Soulasinh (asoulasinh@rthighschool.org) and/or Mr. Edwards (jedwards@rthighschool.org).

Kings Dominion Halloween Haunt + Overnight Stay at RTHS
October 10–11, 2026

Start senior year with an unforgettable night of thrills, friends, and memories.

The Class of 2027 will travel to Kings Dominion for Halloween Haunt and enjoy an extended senior experience that includes:

✅ Kings Dominion admission
✅ Charter bus transportation
✅ Boxed lunch during travel
✅ Snacks and drinks on the bus
✅ Overnight stay at RTHS after returning
✅ Sunday morning continental breakfast

One chaperone will be present for every 15 students who register.

Trip Schedule

• Saturday, October 10, 2026
  • 9:30am – Students arrive at RTHS and set up overnight belongings.
  • 10:15am – Pre-trip meeting and final instructions.
  • 10:30am – Depart RTHS
  • 12pm – Rest stop/lunch break
  • 2pm – Arrive at Kings Dominion
  • 11pm – Depart Kings Dominion
• Sunday, October 11, 2026
  • 2am – Return to RTHS. Families may:
    • Pick up their student upon arrival, OR
    • Have their student remain overnight at RTHS and pick up Sunday morning.
    • Students will not be permitted to drive themselves home after the trip.
  • 8am – Continental breakfast
  • 9am – Check-out

Cost & Registration

💵 Registration Deposit: $40 per student
📅 Due: October 3, 2026
The deposit reserves your student’s spot. This is not refundable after October 3rd.

The final trip cost will be determined after registration closes based on final participation numbers and transportation needs.
Maximum Trip Cost: $175 per student (the deposit will be applied toward the final balance).

➡️ Step 1: Complete the Registration Form (due October 3, 2026)
➡️ Step 2: Pay the Trip Deposit (due October 3, 2026)
➡️ Step 3: Complete the Permission Form (due October 3, 2026)
➡️ Step 4 (Optional): Complete the Medication Form (due October 3, 2026)
➡️ Step 5: Pay the Trip Balance (this link will be posted on 10/4 and is due on 10/7)

Academic & Attendance Eligibility

Participation in the Mini Adventure is a privilege. To remain eligible, students must demonstrate responsible attendance and appropriate conduct at school.

Eligibility Check Date – October 3, 2026

On October 3, RTHS will review each registered student’s attendance and discipline record. To remain eligible for the trip, students must meet all of the following requirements:

• Have no more than five (5) unexcused tardies in any individual class period.
• Have no more than three (3) unexcused absences in any individual class period.
• Have not received an out-of-school or in-school suspension.

Students who do not meet these requirements on October 3 will be ineligible to participate in the trip. Any refunds will be issued in accordance with the published cancellation and refund policy.

Double Feature Movie Day: Dune 3 + Avengers: Doomsday
December 18, 2026

Spend the final day of the semester with the Class of 2027 at an exclusive double-feature movie event before heading into winter break.

The day includes:
🎬 Admission to a private screening of Dune 3
🍕 Pizza bar lunch with soda, juice, and water
🎳 One hour of unlimited bowling and/or arcade gaming
🎬 Admission to a private screening of Avengers: Doomsday

The first movie will begin at 10:00 a.m. Following Dune 3, students will enjoy approximately 90 minutes for lunch, bowling, and arcade games before returning to the theater for Avengers: Doomsday. Final event times will be confirmed once official movie runtimes are released. Students are responsible for purchasing any additional concessions they want.

Location

Hooky Cary
1140 Parkside Main St, Cary, NC 27519

Cost & Registration

💵 Cost: $70 per student
📅 Last Date to Register: December 16, 2026 (if spots are still avaiable)

Registration is limited to the first 50 students who complete registration and submit full payment. If demand exceeds 50 students, RTHS will explore adding an additional 25 students. The cost will remain $70 per student.

➡️ Step 1: Complete the Registration Form (due December 16, 2026 – but this is first come, first served)
➡️ Step 2: Pay the Full $70 Fee (due December 16, 2026 – but this is first come, first served)
➡️ Step 3: Complete the Permission Form (due December 16, 2026 – but this is first come, first served)
➡️ Step 4 (Optional): Complete the Medication Form (due December 16, 2026)

Academic Eligibility

Participation in the Double Feature Movie Day is a privilege. Students must the following eligibility requirements to participate:

• Have no more than five (5) unexcused tardies in any individual class period during the 2026–2027 school year.
• Have no more than three (3) unexcused absences in any individual class period during the 2026–2027 school year.
• Have not received an out-of-school or in-school suspension at any time during the 2026–2027 school year.
• Have no failing grades in any class. Grades will be checked on 12/17/2026 to confirm eligibility.

Students who do not meet the eligibility requirements will be ineligible to participate and have any fees paid refunded.

Because this event takes place on the last day of the semester, students are responsible for making arrangements with their teachers to complete any assessments, assignments, or other coursework scheduled for that day before the event. Participation in the event does not excuse students from completing required academic work.

Arrival & Transportation

Students will be expected to arrange their own transportation to Hooky Cary. Check-in will be at the movie theater. Students should be at the theatre by 9:30 a.m.

Please note this is the same day as the Q2 Food Truck Rodeo at RTHS. Students will be making a choice whether to attend this activity or be at school for the Food Truck Rodeo.

Off-Campus Lunch Day
Friday, January 29, 2027 | 11:50am – 12:40pm

On Friday, January 29, 2027, eligible seniors will have the chance to head off campus for lunch. This is a special privilege just for seniors who are in good standing.

Eligibility Requirements

To participate, you must meet the following:

• Have no Semester 1 grades below 75%
• Have fewer than five (5) unexcused absences in any class period
• Have fewer than five (5) unexcused tardies or early dismissals in any class period
• Not be on an active academic or attendance intervention plan

Permission Form

Deadline to Submit: Monday, January 25, 2027
Permission Form Link: coming soon

Wristband Pick-Up

If you’re approved, you can pick up your required wristband before school OR at the start of lunch on Friday, January 29th in the lobby.

Leaving Campus: What You MUST Have

When heading off campus, you’ll be required to show your wristband. You must show this to the SRO or Admin Team Member at the top of the driveway—whether you’re walking or driving. Students who attempt to leave without these items will face disciplinary action.

Important Reminders for Student Drivers

You are responsible for ensuring all passengers have a wristband. Transporting students in trunks or cargo areas will result in immediate disciplinary action and a revoked parking pass.

Be Back on Time

Anyone who returns late will lose future off-campus lunch privileges and receive detention. Ordering ahead online is strongly encouraged!

Additional Notes

• You can go wherever you’d like – you’re not restricted to Boxyard.
• You may return to campus early, but regular lunch rules still apply. No hanging out in the student parking areas.
• Off-campus behavior must follow the RTHS Student/Parent Handbook.
• The school is not liable for any accident or injury off-campus.
• You and your parent/guardian are responsible for your lunch location and transportation.

This is a fantastic chance to enjoy some extra freedom as a senior—just make sure you follow all procedures so the day goes smoothly for everyone!

Maxi Adventure: 4-Day Bahamas Cruise
Carnival Glory | March 8–12, 2027

The Maxi Adventure is RTHS’s signature senior travel experience — an opportunity for the graduating class to celebrate their final year together through travel, exploration, and community.

During this four-day Bahamas cruise, seniors will travel together from Raleigh-Durham International Airport to Orlando, Florida, transfer to Port Canaveral, and set sail aboard Carnival Glory. Students will enjoy time together onboard the ship, participate in a supervised Nassau excursion, and create memories with their classmates before graduation.

This experience is designed to provide seniors with a memorable final-year adventure while maintaining the safety, structure, and expectations of an RTHS-sponsored trip.

Trip Details

Dates: Monday, March 8, 2027 – Friday, March 12, 2027
Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line
Ship: Carnival Glory
Departure Port: Port Canaveral, Florida
Airport: Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)

The Maxi Adventure includes:

✓ Round-trip airfare from RDU to Orlando
✓ Airport-to-port transportation
✓ Cruise accommodations
✓ Meals included onboard the ship
✓ Supervised Nassau excursion
✓ RTHS chaperone support throughout the trip

Travel Schedule
Monday, March 8, 2027 – Departure Day

🛫 Flight to Orlando
Southwest Airlines Flight 3352
Departing RDU: 5:00 a.m.
Arriving MCO: 6:50 a.m.
Students must check-in at the airport gate with Ms. Lewis no later than 4:10 a.m.

🥯 Breakfast
Breakfast on arrival in Orlando is included in the trip cost. Students will eat together at McCoy’s Bar & Grill.

🚌 Transportation to Port Canaveral
Student will travel from MCO to Port Canaveral via a private charter transportation for larger groups or a dedicated cruise transportation services for smaller groups. This will depend on how many students participate in the trip. Final transportation details will be shared once trip participation is finalized.

🍕 Lunch
Lunch will be on the cruise ship after embarkation.

Friday, March 12, 2027 – Return Day

🥯 Breakfast
Breakfast will be on the cruise ship before disembarkation.

🚌 Transportation to MCO
Student will travel from Port Canaveral to MCO via a private charter transportation for larger groups or a dedicated cruise transportation services for smaller groups. This will depend on how many students participate in the trip. Final transportation details will be shared once trip participation is finalized.

🍕 Lunch
Students are responsible for any snacks or lunch they want in the airport while waiting for the flight.

🛫 Flight to Raleigh/Durham
Breeze Airways Flight MX1611
Departing MCO: 1:22 p.m.
Arriving RDU: 3:22 p.m.
Anticipate meeting your students at baggage claim at 3:30 p.m.

Cruise Experience

Cruise Ship: Carnival Glory

Itenirary:

• • Day 1 | Port Canaveral – ship departs at 3:30 p.m.
  • Day 2 | Nassau – 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
  • Day 3 | Celebration Key – 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
  • Day 4 | Day at Sea
  • Day 5 | Port Canaveral – ship arrives at 8 a.m.

Stateroom Assignments: students will stay in double-occupancy, triple-occupancy, or quadruple-occupancy staterooms. During registration, students will identify their roommate(s).

Chaperones: chaperones will have staterooms separate from students.

Nassau Excursion: during the Nassau port day, students will have the opportunity to participate in a supervised excursion to Blue Lagoon Island. Students can participate in the organized RTHS excursion or remain onboard the ship. Students will not independently explore Nassau. RTHS will provide structure, supervision, and expectations for the port day.

Celebration Key: students will also visit Celebration Key, Carnival’s private destination in the Bahamas. Students will have the opportunity to enjoy the island experience while following RTHS expectations and scheduled check-in procedures.

Meals: meals are included throughout the cruise, beginning with lunch on Monday through breakfast on Friday. Students are responsible for personal purchases, including specialty dining, additional snacks or beverages, souvenirs, and personal spending.

Travel Documentation

Passports are strongly recommended for all students participating. Because this is a closed-loop cruise departing from and returning to the United States, students may also be able to travel using approved alternative documentation. Students without passports must provide acceptable travel documentation as required by Carnival Cruise Line and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. RTHS recommends passports because they provide the greatest flexibility in the event of an emergency or unexpected travel change.

All required travel documents must be submitted to RTHS before departure.

Cost & Payment Schedule

The Maxi Adventure cost is based on current cruise, airfare, transportation, and excursion pricing.

• • Double occupancy room – $1,050 per student
  • Triple occupancy room – $1,010 per student
  • Quadruple occupancy room – $950 per student

Pricing includes all group travel expenses. Students should plan for personal spending money for souvenirs, snacks, specialty beverages, optional onboard purchases, and other personal expenses.

Payments will be collected in installments to allow RTHS to secure airfare, cruise reservations, transportation, and other travel arrangements.

• • September 15, 2026 – $250 due
  • October 15, 2026 – $300 due
  • November 15, 2026 – $300 due
  • December 15, 2026 – remaining balance due

If a student cancels or loses eligibility after travel arrangements have been made, RTHS will make every effort to recover eligible funds. Refunds cannot be guaranteed for expenses that have become non-refundable through travel vendors.

Ms. Lewis has prepared a handful of fundraising ideas for students who complete registration and make their initial payment to contribute to each student’s overall balance. This information will be shared in late-September with students.

Academic and Attendance Eligibility Requirements

This is a special senior experience that requires students to miss instructional time. Participation is reserved for students who are demonstrating academic responsibility, consistent attendance, and readiness to represent RTHS during an extended school-sponsored experience. Students must meet eligibility requirements at multiple checkpoints throughout the planning process.

• • Initial Eligiblity Check – November 20, 2026
    • Have fewer than five (5) unexcused absences in any class period
    • Have fewer than five (5) unexcused tardies or early dismissals in any class period
    • Not be on an active academic or attendance intervention plan
  • Mid-Year Eligibility Check – January 8, 2027
    • Have no Semester 1 grades below 75%
    • Have fewer than five (5) unexcused absences in any class period
    • Have fewer than five (5) unexcused tardies or early dismissals in any class period
    • Not be on an active academic or attendance intervention plan
  • Final Eligibility Check – February 26, 2027
    • Have no in-progress grades below 75%
    • Have fewer than five (5) unexcused absences in any class period
    • Have fewer than five (5) unexcused tardies or early dismissals in any class period
    • Not be on an active academic or attendance intervention plan

Student who fail the initial or mid-year eligibility checks will be put on an academic improvement plan if they still wish to participate in the trip. This may include progress monitoring with teachers and/or counselors, completion of missing assignments, and required academic support meetings. If a student fails the final eligibility check, RTHS will make every effort to recover eligible funds when possible but cannot guarantee refunds for expenses that have already become non-refundable.

Registration & Payment Links

➡️ Step 1: Complete the Registration Form (due by September 15, 2026)
➡️ Step 2: Pay the Initial Deposit (due by September 15, 2026)
➡️ Step 3: Complete the Permission Form (due by September 15, 2026)
➡️ Step 4: Complete the Health & Medication Form (due by September 15, 2026)
➡️ Step 5 (optional): Complete the Prescription Medication Form (due by September 15, 2026)
➡️ Step 6: Email copies of your students travel documents and health insurance cards to dlewis@rthighschool.org (due by September 16, 2026)
➡️ Step 7: Make the Second Payment (due by October 15, 2026)
➡️ Step 8: Make the Third Payment (due by November 15, 2026)
➡️ Step 8: Pay the Final Balance (due by December 15, 2026; a link for the final payment will be posted soon)

Students will pick up their graduation regalia during 2nd period.

Students who are not at school during that time can pick up their regalia after with Ms. Lewis.

Official information coming soon!

Questions about Prom should be directed to Ms. Soulasinh (asoulasinh@rthighschool.org).

The Kickback – Monday May 24, 2026
A Day to Chill, Play & Make Memories

You’ve worked hard all year — now it’s time to enjoy a day with your classmates before graduation. The Kickback is an exclusive Class of 2027 experience that combines the best parts of a field day and a day hanging out with friends — but all fun, no pressure.

Spend the day relaxing, playing games, getting creative, and enjoying time together at the Forest Hills Neighborhood Clubhouse. Students will have access to indoor and outdoor spaces for:

• Relaxing and hanging out with friends
• Games and activities
• Creative experiences
• Field day-style fun

Date: Monday, May 24, 2027
Time: 8:45am –3:30pm
Location: Forest Hills Neighborhood Clubhouse | Address: 1639 University Drive, Durham, NC 27707
Included: Activities, snacks, drinks, and a special afternoon treat
Lunch: Students should bring their own lunch or may order food delivery during the event.
Registration Deadline: Friday, May 14, 2027

——————–

Durham Uncovered – Tuesday, May 25, 2027
Explore, Eat & Discover

Spend the day experiencing Durham in a whole new way with your classmates before graduation. Durham Uncovered is a chance to explore the city, discover new places, and create memories together. Students will work in small groups to complete challenges throughout Durham, enjoy lunch together at a local food hall, and have time to explore the city at their own pace.

The day will include:

• A city exploration challenge with friends
• Lunch at a Durham food hall
• Afternoon exploration time

Date: Tuesday, May 25, 2027
Time: 8:45am–3:30pm
Location: Downtown Durham
Participation Fee: Free to attend
Lunch: Students are responsible for purchasing their own lunch at the food hall.
Registration Deadline: Friday, May 14, 2027

——————–

Important Information for Both Senior Fun Days

Eligibility Requirements

Senior Fun Days are open only to students who have completed their academic responsibilities before the event dates. Students may participate if they are exempt from all final exams and/or complete final projects or presentations before May 24th. Students who have final exams to take are expected to attend class and may not participate in Senior Fun Days.

Students who have received suspensions at any point during the 2026-2027 school year will also be ineligible to participate.

Transportation

Students will travel in student-organized carpool groups. Students must create their own carpool groups and submit their group information to Ms. Lewis before the event. No student may travel alone – every vehicle must include at least a driver and a passenger.

Students must check in at RTHS and be ready to depart by 8:45 AM each day. Students should not make any stops on their way to and from the Fun Day destinations.

Attendance Expectations

Senior Fun Days are optional activities. Students who choose not to register for Senior Fun Days are expected to attend school as normal. Students who do not attend school will be marked absent.

Students are expected to participate for the full duration of the event. Students may not arrive late, leave early, or come and go throughout the day. An exception to this rule may be made for students involved in late AP testing or an RTHS athletic team contest. No other exceptions will be made.

Registration and Permission Forms

Coming soon!

Thursday, May 27, 2027
6:00 p.m. (Doors open at 5:30 p.m.)
Location TBA
All students, staff, and family members are invited to attend. Tickets are not required.

The Class of 2027, their family, and friends are invited to our annual Senior Awards Night. We will be celebrating academic and community achievements within the senior class, including departmental awards, our annual Raptor Values Award, and other recognitions.

Seniors who are being honored will receive a communication from Mrs. Overman by May 21st letting them they know should be in attendance.

We hope that all seniors are able to join and cheer on their classmates.

The ceremony will last 60 minutes.

Dress code is casual, but business casual is encouraged.

Food, beverage, balloons, or confetti is not allowed.

Senior Picnic

Time: 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Location: PE Parking Lot

Before graduation festivities begin, join your classmates for one last lunch together at RTHS. The Senior Picnic is an opportunity to relax, enjoy good food, laugh with friends, sign yearbooks, take photos, and celebrate the memories you’ve made over the past four years. It’s a chance to slow down and enjoy each other’s company before everyone’s paths begin to take new directions.

——————

Senior Sunset

Time: 8:35 p.m.
Location: Herndon Park

As your time at RTHS comes to a close, gather one final time with the Class of 2027 to watch the sunset together. Senior Sunset serves as a symbolic bookend to Senior Sunrise, marking the end of your high school journey and celebrating the friendships, accomplishments, and memories that have defined your time at RTHS.

Bring a blanket or lawn chair, dress comfortably for the evening, and enjoy one last opportunity to reflect with your classmates before graduation.

As the sun sets on your time at RTHS, we hope you’ll take a moment to appreciate how far you’ve come—and look ahead with excitement to all that lies beyond.

Friday, June 11, 2027
Rehearsal – Time TBA | Ceremony – Time TBA
Meymandi Concert Hall, Raleigh

Required Regalia

There are five items that are required for graduation: cap, gown, stole, tassel, and diploma cover. Students will receive the cap, gown, stole, and tassel on Pick-Up Day on 4/6/2027. RTHS holds onto the diploma cover for the graduation ceremony.

Club & Student Organization Cords

Cords will be coordinated through your student clubs and organizations. Your staff sponsor will have more information about cords after spring break.

Cords should be worn open and hanging loosely (not tied in front, for example).

Ceremony Attire

RTHS does not have a formal graduation ceremony dress code outside of the required regalia. We ask that whatever you wear under your gown is appropriate for such a ceremony. This ceremony is being professionally photographed and recorded and pictures are forever!

Students will have to walk up and down stairs to walk for their diploma. Choose your shoes wisely!

Nothing should be pinned to the gown (flowers, etc.).

Graduates should not plan to carry any items into the auditorium except basics like car keys, tissues, and a cell phone. Alternatively, graduates can leave their belongings in the locked Martin Suite, but do so at their own liability. Arrange for your family to hold anything else. All individuals must follow the Security and Bag Policy of the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts.

Cap Decorating

Seniors are allowed to decorate their caps, but must following these guidelines. There is no requirement to personalize your cap. You may leave it as is.

• No items should extend off the cap (raised or trailing, for example)
• Nothing should light-up or flash.
• No mirrors or reflective materials should be used that could be an issue for people seated above you.
• Anything written on the cap should be appropriate for a family audience from diverse backgrounds. No profanity, insults, or overt political statements.
• If you want ideas, think about shomething that represents your four years at RTHS, your future, or your identity. Many students choose a college they will be attending, a sport or club they have participated in, a quote from a favorite book or song, a meme, a thank you to parents, etc.
• The arrangement of the graduation venue means you will be seated on the ground floor. Audience members will be staring down at the top of your heads 🙂

Affixing Caps for All Hair Types

There are many items available on the internet that can help you affix your cap to your head if you have a hairstyle that isn’t condusive to the one-size-fits-all design. Try searching “Graduation Cap Headhand” on Amazon for a variety of options.

Caps should be worn flat/parallel to the ground, not tipped back on your head. Pro tip: if the point of the cap is pushing your hair down over your eyes, you can fold the point back a little and pit it that way.

Tickets

Each senior will receive 10 tickets to the ceremony. Due to the size of our venue, we cannot offer any additional seats.

Tickets will be distributed at the graduation prep assembly in May.

Families are encouraged to exchange tickets that are not needed with families that would like more. RTHS staff will not help facilitate this process to maintain equity.

Graduating seniors do not require a ticket!

Infants and young children who are going to sit on an adult’s lap do not require a ticket.

Accessible seating at this venue is on a first come, first served basis. There are spaces for individuals in wheelchairs. Ushers at the venue can help your guests find these seats.

Emcee, Speaker, & Performer Auditions

At RTHS, we don’t do high school like other schools. We want our graduation ceremony to reflect the spirit of our school, which means we need YOU to tell us what RTHS has meant to you at graduation through words or a performance. We select our speakers and performers for graduation based on an application and audition process to ensure we have voices that represent our school.

Audition request forms will be available in March!

Graduation Prep Assembly (May 2027)

All seniors will be required to attend the Graduation Prep Assembly in May 2027. The date and time of this assembly will be announced later. It will be during the school day. During this assembly, RTHS staff will review all logistics of the ceremony with seniors.

Rehearsal – Time  TBA

All seniors are required to attend graduation rehearsal.

Students should come in the shoes they intend to wear during the ceremony to practice.

Students may not arrive late or leave early without discussing it with Mrs. Overman beforehand. Any students who are absent will NOT be allowed to participate in the graduation ceremony.

Family and friends may NOT attend rehearsal! Anyone who comes will be asked to wait outside the venue.

Personal Belongings

All individuals must follow the Security and Bag Policy of the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts. You should only need to bring with you your ceremony shoes.

Behavior Expectations & Protocols

During rehearsal, seniors are expected to be distraction free. We know rehearsal isn’t the most exciting, but your attention is needed to learn everything you’re going to do.

We are guests in this venue. Any behavior that is destructive to the venue will not be tolerated and will result in not being able to participate in the ceremony. No beach balls, food, drinks, bubbles, or anything that would spill or fly around the space is allowed.

Ceremony – Time TBA

The ceremony will last between 1 – 1.5 hours.

The ceremony will be professionally recorded and a video linked will be shared for viewing in the weeks following for individuals who weren’t able to attend. Unlike in previous years, there will be no livestream of the ceremony.

The ceremony will be professionaly photographed and the link to download and/or order prints will be sent in the weeks following.

Your guests may not leave their seats to attempt to take photos or videos of the ceremony. Venue ushers will require them to return to their seat immediately. Guests are allowed to take photos and videos of the ceremony from their seats, but can’t use flash or external lighting.

You will receive your diploma during the ceremony.

Immediately following the processional, staff will have a receiving line for seniors. Your family can meet you in the lobby or outside the building.