On Nov. 25, a group of LHS seniors proposed the idea of an outdoor graduation on Facebook. While some seniors highly approved of the idea, there are many concerns associated with the setting.

The beginning of every LHS student’s high school career begins in the gym. Ecstatic teachers and members of the administration greet every freshman with a beaming smile and a high five. At this exciting ceremony, the faculty always make sure to note that the next time the class will walk through the gymnasium doors as one group will be at graduation.

Jessica Mathias, current senior, said she would really like having graduation outside, but was concerned about seating for handicapped family members in the bleachers. Alejandra Marquez, also a senior, agreed that seating for the disabled may be problematic and said, “It would be cool to have, but it reminds me of ‘High School Musical’.”

While the event is hoped for by many members of the senior class, Mr. Clark, director of operations, said, “It poses a lot of challenges- all of which could be overcome at a cost.” Some of these challenges include the cost for additional chairs for an outdoor set up and indoor set up because of the threat of indecisive midwest weather and set up time for outdoor decoration, such as banners and an outdoor stage. Also, graduation is set for 7 p.m., which could mean gradual darkness as the ceremony is celebrated.

There are many benefits of hosting graduation in the gym. Inclement weather is never an issue and the setup time for the Buildings and Grounds staff proves to be much quicker than setting up seating arrangements in the stadium. Additionally, the gym setting is more suitable for families and graduates who wish to take photos before and after the ceremony.

While the gym does attract a large crowd, the Performing Arts Center serves as an air conditioned, comfy spot for grandparents and elderly relatives who prefer to watch graduation from the theater. Graduates receive limited tickets for relatives who wish to sit in the gym, so the PAC is a great secondary location for viewers of the ceremony.

While a graduation outdoors might not be in the cards this year, Mr. Clark noted, “Never say never.” With the annexed section of Palos and the possibility of more students at LHS in the future, outdoor graduation might turn into a necessity because of limited space in the gym.

Graduation in the gym serves a sentimental purpose, as well as providing the most benefit for graduates and their families. While graduation in the stadium might someday become a reality, the gymnasium is the best place for the extravagant ceremony.