Class of 2026 Information
Dear Highland Park High School Seniors and Families,
With just months until graduation, we're excited to celebrate this final semester with you at Highland Park High School! As we look ahead to this important milestone, preparations are already underway for your Graduation Ceremony.
Please check these pages regularly in the coming months, as we’ll continue to post updates and reminders. We look forward to celebrating this exciting achievement with you and your families!
Graduation 2026 Ceremony Details
- Date: Thursday, May 21, 2026
- Time: Ceremony begins promptly at 5:00 p.m. (approximately 90 minutes)
- Location: Loyola University Chicago, Joseph J. Gentile Arena (“The Joe”), 6525 N Sheridan Rd, Chicago, IL 60626
Tickets
Each graduate will receive seven tickets for family and guests. Graduates will receive their tickets during rehearsal (see details below). Graduates themselves do not need a ticket.
All seating is general admission. Tickets do not correspond to specific seats. The Loyola Arena will open at 3:30 p.m. to allow for family and guests to secure their seats.
Like in years past, we will also provide a link to a livestream of the ceremony for those who cannot attend in person.
Transportation and Parking
Families and guests with a valid admission ticket may drive or take district-provided transportation to the ceremony.
- District Transportation:
Buses depart from the Highland Park High School’s main parking lot at 3:00 p.m. Please complete the Transportation Request Form if you plan to ride a district bus. Families who choose this option will receive direct communication with additional details. - Parking:
Each graduate will receive two parking passes (no extra passes for twins) unless they opt for district transportation. Reserved parking for School families will be available in two nearby garages:- 1110 W. Sheridan Rd., Chicago (Main Parking Garage)
- 6461 N Sheridan Rd, Chicago (Fordham Parking Garage)
Accessibility Accommodations
We want all guests to have a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
- Accessible Parking: ADA-accessible parking is available in the Main Parking Garage on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Accessible Seating: ADA-accessible seating is located within the Gentile Arena at Loyola University Chicago. Please complete this District 113 Class of 2026 Accessible Seating Request Form by March 15, 2026 if you are requesting accessible seating for the graduation ceremony. Accessible seating passes will be provided to graduates along with the ceremony tickets. Due to space limitations, one companion may accompany the guest in the accessible seating area. A standard ceremony ticket is still required for entry into the arena. After submitting this form, a copy of your responses will be sent to the email address you provide.
Graduate Information
Graduation Rehearsal (required):
Graduates will attend rehearsal at Highland Park High School on the morning of their ceremony, Thursday, May 21, beginning at 8:40 a.m. The rehearsal will last approximately two and a half hours.
During rehearsal, graduates will:
- Learn where to line up, cross the stage, and exit after the ceremony.
- Practice receiving their diploma and collect guest tickets and also accessible seating passes (if applicable).
- Hear the announcement of student honors (Valedictorian, Salutatorian, Scholars).
Graduation Ceremony
Graduates must be inside the Loyola University Arena by 4:00 p.m. Graduates will line up in their homerooms ready to march by 4:45 p.m. in the designated locations. Again, the ceremony begins at 5:00 p.m. sharp.
We’re thrilled to celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2026 and look forward to sharing this memorable day with you.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions.
Warm regards,
Matt Wallace - Assistant Principal, Highland Park High School