Hanover High School Outdoor Graduation Ceremony Confirmed for 5:00 PM Outdoors, May 29, 2026

The forecast for rain moving into our area tomorrow evening has not changed. That said, we have been advised that the steadier and heavier rain is expected to arrive later in the evening and continue overnight.

With that in mind, we have an important decision to make, with challenges on both sides. Our options are to move the graduation ceremony up to 5:00 PM and accept the risk of scattered early showers, or move the ceremony indoors with limited capacity in the gymnasium, which would result in a less comfortable environment.

The most important question for us is: What type of ceremony and memories do we want for our students and their families? After weighing the risks and benefits of both options, we believe that celebrating on the field, surrounded by family and friends, is worth that risk.

Therefore, the Class of 2026 graduation ceremony will begin at 5:00 pm outdoors.

We will continue to monitor the weather closely throughout tomorrow morning. If the risk of heavy rain during the ceremony increases, we may need to change course. If that happens, families will be notified early in the afternoon. Should we need to move indoors, the ceremony will begin at 6:30 pm to allow our team the time needed to prepare the gymnasium.

To help you plan, please note that umbrellas will not be permitted in the main seating areas or in the bleachers, as they can block views for others. Guests are welcome to bring umbrellas for use (which we hope will not be needed) while watching from outside the main seating areas on the turf field.

This is not a risk-free plan. There remains a possibility of some rain during the ceremony, so we encourage everyone to plan accordingly.

Again, we appreciate your flexibility and patience as we work to provide the best possible experience for the Class of 2026. We remain hopeful for a memorable outdoor celebration.

Sincerely,

Matthew Plummer
Principal