Frequently Asked Questions

When is Graduation?

Thursday, June 29, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. at the Jack Bionda Arena. Graduates are expected to arrive at the Don Lough Arena and check in at 12:00 p.m. Grads will pick up their gowns and be marshalled for the processional.

What is the process to pick up grad tickets?

  • Grad tickets will be available to pick up during the Week of May 15-19th, 2023. It is important to pick up your initial tickets during this week as unclaimed tickets will go into the extra pile after May 19th.
  • If you find that you will not need some of your tickets, you MUST return them to the office to be distributed to the next person on the waiting list for extra tickets. Please do not hand these extra tickets to friends, as this is not fair for those on the waiting list.
  • Grad tickets are free and each Grad will initially be issued 4 tickets during the May 15-19th distribution
  • If you are requesting more than 4 tickets, let Mrs. Galbraith know that you need extras when you pick up your tickets and she will record this.  Extra tickets will be issued in the weeks following May 19th, following an equitable process.
  • When you come to pick up your grad tickets, Mrs.Galbraith will also take your height for the Grad Gown. 
  • If you are not intending to come to graduation, please let Mrs. Galbraith know so your tickets can be distributed to others who need extras.
  • If you are coming to graduation but are not able to pick up the tickets during the week of May 15th, please contact Mrs. Galbraith and let her know how many tickets you would like, along with your height. She will package them up and hold them for you until you have returned to school.

How do I know if I’m graduating or receiving an award?

Students will receive a phone call on Wednesday, June 28th.

What are the minimum requirements for Honour Roll?

80% average on at least 6 courses taken during the most recent school year.     Students need a minimum of 5 courses at the senior level.

How do I become an Ontario Scholar?

80% average on the best 6 grade 12 courses, which may be taken over more than one year. 

What Scholarships and Bursaries are available to graduates?

Check with Student Services and the Grad Classroom for Scholarship information. Remember that not all awards are based on academics.

Who is eligible for awards?

Most, but not all awards, are given to graduating students.  This means that even if you plan on returning to high school, you are eligible at the time of your  graduation, but not in your subsequent year.

What should I wear to graduation?

All students must wear a graduation gown over their clothes.  Footwear must be worn to cross the stage. No flip-flops.  *Note there will not be a secure location for personal belongings (hats, cell phones, purses etc.) —travel light!

How do I get a graduation gown?

Grad gowns will be provided on the day of graduation, which includes a souvenir cap and tassel. All students MUST wear a gown to take part in the graduation ceremony.

What happens during the processional and recessional?

Students will be marshalled alphabetically in the HHS cafeteria and will proceed, in pairs, to their seats in the arena. To receive their diplomas, students will walk across the stage, shake hands with dignitaries, and then return to their seats.  During the recessional, students will leave the arena in pairs, down the centre aisle, to the Summit Centre lobby. Gowns must be returned to the HHS cafeteria.

When do I get my diploma, awards, and report card?

Students will receive a temporary diploma while on stage.  This paper must be handed in, with grad gowns, in the HHS cafeteria before students receive their actual diploma. Diplomas will not be available until the conclusion of the ceremony.

Award recipients must complete the thank you card provided in their graduation package and hand it in to the office at HHS after July 4th, before receiving their award. Report cards will be available in the main office in early July.

Who is invited to graduation?

Graduates may invite up to four family members and friends to graduation.  Tickets will be available for pick up in the main office from May 15th – May 19th.

General Expectations

  • Sobriety
  • Electronic devices turned off
  • Remain in your seats until the end of the ceremony
  • Participate as respectful audience members

Library Materials

All textbooks, library books, chromebooks, and chromebook chargers must be return to the library prior to graduation. You must also pay all outstanding fees. This must occur for you to receive your official diploma.