Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Many public schools are moving away from graduations at DAR this year. Not sure why.

Might have to do with the militarization of the federal government and concerns for undocumented Hispanic families with potentially being raided by ICE during their kids graduation.

OMG you're so dumb. DAR is way too small and hasn't been used for years for the largest MCPS high schools.

Just... think before you type. You're making the left look bad.

Anonymous wrote:UMBC has been used for YEARS. My kid had his graduation ceremony there in 2023, and even then it wasn't new. It's because graduating classes are huge and smaller venues mean parking nightmares and very few tickets to each family.

Can you please inform yourself before looking stupid on DCUM?

Yes, UMBC has been used by MCPS schools for graduation before but this is the first time ALL MCPS High Schools will be at one venue.

The email is also claiming cost savings for school budgets, since it's being booked centrally. I'd like to see what that looks like.

Anonymous wrote:Many public schools are moving away from graduations at DAR this year. Not sure why.

Might have to do with the militarization of the federal government and concerns for undocumented Hispanic families with potentially being raided by ICE during their kids graduation.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:How was the message sent? I'm a parent of a senior and haven't received anything.

My kid's principal (at Blake) just emailed it with the date and time info of graduation. I'm guessing each high school will be sending it out soon.

Churchill principal just sent out a message too

UMBC has been used for YEARS. My kid had his graduation ceremony there in 2023, and even then it wasn't new. It's because graduating classes are huge and smaller venues mean parking nightmares and very few tickets to each family.

Can you please inform yourself before looking stupid on DCUM?

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:How was the message sent? I'm a parent of a senior and haven't received anything.

My kid's principal (at Blake) just emailed it with the date and time info of graduation. I'm guessing each high school will be sending it out soon.

Thanks!

Anonymous wrote:How was the message sent? I'm a parent of a senior and haven't received anything.

My kid's principal (at Blake) just emailed it with the date and time info of graduation. I'm guessing each high school will be sending it out soon.

Anonymous wrote:Are y’all going to freak out about this every year?

+1

Oh wow. Honestly, I'm not mad at MCPS for doing this. Figuring which school was hosting which graduation where was an absolute nightmare.

Also, the graduations in D.A.R. Constitution Hall have become untenable with all of the disruptions and increased military presence happening in the nation's capital.

We were at UMBC last year. It was fine.

How was the message sent? I'm a parent of a senior and haven't received anything.

For those that want to see what was sent:

This year brings an important update. All Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) comprehensive high school graduation ceremonies will be hosted at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). This decision was made to provide every graduate and their family with:
A comfortable, indoor setting that is not dependent on the weather.
Ample parking and accessibility for guests.
Reduced costs—MCPS negotiated with UMBC on behalf of all high schools and is covering venue rental fees, which substantially lowers costs to schools and families.

MCPS decided to use a centralized venue to ensure consistency, equity, and a celebratory experience worthy of this milestone for every student across the county.

We also know that travel may be a concern for some families. MCPS will provide information in the coming months about transportation options and supports to make sure all students and families are able to attend.

Graduation is one of the most memorable events in a student’s life. Our school community is looking forward to celebrating the achievements of the Class of 2026 in a way that is meaningful, inclusive, and accessible for all.

Many public schools are moving away from graduations at DAR this year. Not sure why.

Are y’all going to freak out about this every year?

Was this a change that was ever discussed? The email that just came through was the very first I hear anything of this. Very disappointing.