Mount Vernon City staff give seniors step-by-step instructions for graduation ceremony

Staff at Mount Vernon City High School told graduating seniors during a rehearsal to arrive at 2 p.m., leave caps undecorated, and avoid spiky heels so the ceremony can run smoothly.

The instructions, delivered during a walk-through of the ceremony in the school gym, covered procession order, stage procedures, photo and livestream arrangements, and which cords and decorations students may wear.

Staff member (event organizer) said, "You are gonna meet us in the gym. When you come in, do not have your cap and gown on. It's going to be hot in the gym," and repeated that students should remove caps and gowns after arrival so they can change before the ceremony. The organizer added, "you cannot wear heels. Spiky heels. You can wear wedges." On program length, the organizer said, "It's about an hour and 10 minutes long."

Why it matters: following the announced rules will affect seating, photo opportunities and whether families see students on stage as planned. Staff emphasized…