Graduation 2026 Frequently Asked Questions

Use this page for quick answers about caps and gowns, tickets, seating, parking, ceremony logistics, photos, and student records.

Where can I get my cap and gown?

School District 87 has a contract with Jostens for commencement caps and gowns. Separate information has been posted online explaining how to order.

If you are past the deadline, contact Jostens directly at 630-963-3500. Payments for these items are made directly to Jostens, not District 87.

All merchandise must be paid in full, and all financial obligations to District 87 must also be cleared before items will be released. Jostens will only accept cash on the pick-up day at school in mid-May. Refer to the Jostens informational posting on the Glenbard East website.

How do I get the wrinkles out?

When you receive your graduation gown, remove it from the packaging promptly and hang it up. You may press it with a cool iron or hang it in a steamy bathroom.

The material is very delicate and cannot be dry-cleaned.

Which side do I wear my tassel on?

Caps, or mortarboards, should be worn parallel with the ground. Tassels are traditionally worn on the right side and then moved to the left after you receive your diploma.

How will students be honored?

Students who have maintained honor roll for seven consecutive semesters will receive a special tassel. Department Senior of the Year awards will also be distributed at a special ceremony in May.

What should I wear to the ceremony?

Graduates are encouraged to wear attire that reflects the significance of this milestone. The ceremony marks a major transition, so students should dress in a way that honors the occasion and celebrates their achievement.

How many tickets are given?

Each graduate will receive six tickets from their counselor at the Senior Celebration. Tickets will not be mailed or given out earlier.

No additional tickets will be provided. Students are encouraged to connect with classmates who may not use their full allotment.

Do children need tickets?

If a child will occupy their own seat, a ticket is required. Children age 3 and under do not need a ticket if they remain on a parent’s lap for the full ceremony.

How do I make arrangements for individuals with special seating needs?

Guests using wheelchairs, or guests for whom a long walk is difficult, may request pre-arranged handicap accessible seating through Mrs. Infelise in the Main Office at [email protected].

A special parking pass will be issued, and two of the six tickets will be stamped “Reserved Seating.” Only one individual may accompany the guest.

Anyone needing a sign language interpreter for the ceremony should contact Mr. Booth, Assistant Principal of Student Services, at 630-424-6603.

What time should guests arrive?

Doors will open one hour before the ceremony. See the College of DuPage site map for entry points.

Where do guests park?

Guests should park in College lots 1, 2, and 3 on the south side of campus. Students who drive separately have a designated parking area on the north side of the building.

Parking locations for both graduates and guests are also noted on the back of the ticket.

How long does the ceremony last?

The ceremony typically lasts about two hours. Immediately after the processional, graduates are required to see a member of the guidance department.

Parents may wait in the MAC courtyard, but not in the PEC building. The arena will close afterward so College of DuPage staff can begin cleanup.

Will flowers or other amenities be available at the ceremony?

Yes. Glenbard District 87 has contracts with several vendors and service providers for commencement-related items and photography.

  • Grad Flowers will have bouquets available for purchase before and after the ceremony.
  • Grad Images will take individual photos during the ceremony. Orders can be placed online at gradimages.com. Questions can be directed to 800-261-2576. Delivery usually takes 7 to 14 business days after the order date. Personal photos may be taken only from your seats.
  • Lifetouch Photography will take a panoramic class photo on the seniors’ last day of school attendance. Students can go to events.lifetouch.com, choose “Find Your Event,” and enter “all events,” “Illinois,” and the school name. The panoramic is typically available for purchase two to three weeks after the photo shoot.

There will not be a videographer at the ceremony, but the event is expected to be live streamed through the Glenbard East website.

Food, beverages, balloons, and noisemakers are not allowed in the arena.

Where can I find additional information on graduation?

Updated graduation information will be posted periodically on the website under the parent section.

How do I obtain student records?

State laws governing school student records and Glenbard Policy #5125 require notification about student record destruction schedules and the right to request copies before destruction.

Permanent records are retained for 60 years, and temporary records are retained for no longer than 5 years after graduation.

All transcripts must be requested through the Registrar in the Guidance Department. Forms are available on the Glenbard East website, and processing may take 10 to 15 business days after the request is received.