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Graduation

Welcome to our webpage dedicated to celebrating the monumental milestone of high school graduation! 🎓

High school graduation is a momentous occasion in the lives of young adults, marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. It's a time to reflect on the years of hard work, growth, and achievement, and to look forward to the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.

We understand that planning for this significant event can be both exciting and overwhelming. That's why we've created this page  to provide you with all the essential information you need to make your graduation day as smooth and memorable as possible. 

Relive Graduation 

Tuesday May 28, 2024

Westwood High School Commencement Ceremony at 8 a.m.
Ridge View High School Commencement Ceremony at 12 p.m.
Richland Northeast H. S. Commencement Ceremony at 4 p.m.

Wednesday, May 29, 2024

Spring Valley High School Commencement Ceremony at 8 a.m.
Blythewood High School Commencement Ceremony at 12 p.m.

Graduation Times

First things first, let's talk about the when. Graduation is typically held the last week of school. No tickets are required. Graduations are held at the Colonial Life Arena. Doors will open one hour before the start of commencement. Traffic will be HEAVY. Please time your arrival to allow for parking, walking to the venue, meeting up with family and friends and getting settled into your seats. 

Location


 

Clear bag policy & prohibited items

Clear bag

While bags are not encouraged, the following outlines the bags that are permitted:

  • Clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bags that do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12" -- A logo no larger than 4.5" x 3.4" can be displayed on one side of a permissible clear bag.

  • One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar)

  • Small clutch bags no larger than 4.5" x 6.5" -- approximately the size of a hand, with or without a handle or strap

  • Medically necessary items (after proper inspection and tagging)

Prohibited items include:

  • noisemakers of any kind
  • balloons
  • flowers

Parking

colonial life arena parking

We understand that parking can be a bit of a puzzle, especially when large crowds gather for such an important occasion. We've got you covered with all the parking details you need, including maps, parking lot locations, and any special instructions to ensure that your arrival and departure from the venue are as hassle-free as possible.

Most of the parking options for the arena are paid lots operated by USC, the City of Columbia and businesses in downtown Columbia.

Accessibility

accessibility

The Colonial Life Arena offers a wide variety of accessible seating with options to accommodate limited mobility, visual and hearing impaired, and wheelchair accessible areas.

School Contacts

Your student's school counseling office is the best contact for specific questions. See contacts below.