The 2021-2022 school year is coming to an end, and seniors will soon be heading across the stage at Tropicana Field.

The ceremony takes place on May 19 at 4 p.m. Graduates are expected to arrive at the ceremony at 3 p.m. Families can arrive at 3:15 p.m. and enter through gate one or five. This year, Tropicana has tightened up its rules and all schools have a dress code that they must follow in order to be let into the stadium and participate in the ceremony.

“The rules for graduation are developed by the district and they got many of their rules from Tropicana Field,” senior class sponsor Chantella Moore said.

Boys must wear:

• white or light-colored shirt
• a dark tie
• dark trousers with a belt
• dark dress shoes and dark socks

Girls must wear:

• a dress or
• dark dress slacks and white or light-colored blouse,
• dark colored dress shoes. (Flat or wedge shoes are recommended since students will be walking on varying types of surfaces.)

Tennis shoes, flip-flops or slides are not permitted. Each student will be checked for appropriate attire and appearance before participating in the graduation ceremony. Signs, flowers/gifts, balloons and noisemakers are not allowed per Tropicana’s rules. No food and beverages will be allowed in the stadium.

No bags, purses, backpacks, or slings can be carried into the ceremony. Graduates are highly encouraged to leave purses and electronic devices with a family member or in their automobile during the ceremony.

Tropicana is a no-cash facility. The $10-per-car parking fee must be paid by a debit or credit card. Individuals with young children who bring a stroller will not be allowed to bring a stroller into the stadium. Strollers can be left outside, and Tropicana staff members will monitor the stroller parking area.

After the ceremony graduates will report back to their check in/check out table to collect their diploma. After graduates receive their diplomas, they are expected to exit the building and proceed to the parking lot to meet their families.