Graduation & beyond FAQ for Seniors, families
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Graduation and beyond. Thanks to the Class of 2025 Adviser, Language Arts teacher Mark Lovre, for help with some of the answers.
| Have a tricky q? Send it to the PTSA. |
How do I buy tickets for the Graduation?
You don’t! It’s free and not ticketed. There is plenty of seating at Memorial Stadium (on wood benches).
But the security screening process might cause delay in entry, so arrive early for the 8 pm ceremony. (Students are asked to arrive by about 7 pm.)
Live video available? Recording?
Yes to both. The ceremony will stream live on the SPS YouTube channel and also on cable/satellite systems with the SPS channel (it is Channel 26 on Comcast/xfinity).
Can I order a photo of my graduate receiving the diploma case?
The GradImages company will have staff taking this photo, and offers variously priced options. There is no deadline to place an order. (The actual diploma is not being handed to graduates. See “The Great Beyond,” below.)
- Go to GradImages website (pre-registration unlocks a discount on $50+ orders)
Will the students “walk” in alphabetical order?
No! The order is more-or-less picked by students at the rehearsal, and also has some randomness to it. In case you are wondering, the reading of each student’s name is based on a card they fill out at Graduation Rehearsal (OR just before the ceremony).
Where’s the info about Grad Night (the ticketed all-night party)?
Grads who purchased their ticket (the deadline was June 1) should have received information via email. Most information is also online:
The Great Beyond…
When does a graduate get the actual diploma?
The actual diploma is not handed out at Graduation. It will be available for pickup as of Sept. 15, 2025, at Garfield’s Main Office.
When does the SPS student tech account expire (access to OneDrive, email, Microsoft apps and more)?
Mid-July at latest. Seniors should download or otherwise save any valuable electronic items ASAP.
HOWEVER: Naviance may remain available to graduates who change their username and password in that app before July 15. Instructions TBA.
Is there an alumni association?
Garfield Golden Grads is the primary alumni association. Although it originally was oriented toward Bulldogs who are 50 or more years past their graduation year, membership ($30 annually) is open to others. In addition to helping create community, GGG raises money for scholarships and other programs benefiting current students.
Any other way to keep in touch with GHS and alums?
Seattle Public Schools doesn’t set up reunions or compile alumni directories, so it is up to grads to attend Garfield events or otherwise figure it out. Some grads have used social media, such as Facebook groups for individual Class Years and affinity groups, and this large one for any alum:
- I Graduated from Garfield High School in Seattle. (private group; requires approval by an admin)
How do I buy “Garfield Alumni” or “Bulldog 4 Life” sportswear?
The proud Bulldog will dress in purple for many years to come!