Homeschooling one's child (and later, young adult) offers a special and unique opportunity when it comes time for high school graduation. A graduation and party for a homeschool student can be made to reflect personal and family values, be as intimate or large as one likes, and be as formal or informal as the family prefers.
Some homeschoolers belong to a community homeschool group and can join in with other students to have a graduation ceremony and gathering. Others may not belong to a group or may prefer to have a more intimate event. This article deals with a more independent graduation, yet offers ideas that may be extended to homeschool group graduations.
Begin Planning a Homeschool Graduation with the Graduate in Mind
- Ask the graduate what kind of event he would like. Formal? Fun? Daytime? Evening? Immediate family only? Lots of friends?
- Do they want to be in on the planning, or would they rather be surprised?
- Would the graduate like a themed party? Some themes for parties with a mix of ages are a 50's diner party, a fancy dinner party, a potluck casual affair, a garden party, or a simple graduation ceremony with no party, but with a simple reception.
- Other theme ideas might be a picnic at a park where the graduate walks over a small bridge to receive the diploma. A backyard party might have white Christmas lights in trees and an arch set up for photos.
Consider the Homeschooling Graduation Budget
- If money is a big issue, stick to lower priced invitations (possible homemade or even e-mail based for a small gathering), simple decorations, and perhaps desserts rather than a meal.
- Are there friends who are willing to help? Call on them now and help them when their child has a special event.
- Ask around for a cap and gown to borrow.
- Call around for free or low cost rooms for the graduation. Some ideas are senior centers, community rooms, churches, and restaurants.
- If money is not much of an issue, perhaps renting a fancy hall with a caterer or having the event in a restaurant or hotel banquet room might be appropriate. Look under "weddings" in the yellow pages for ideas.
Reliable Resources for Invitations, Diplomas, and Announcements
- A terrific source online is Homeschool Diploma.com which carries beautiful, high quality personalized diplomas and homeschool diploma covers, caps, gowns, tassels, graduation announcements, and more. This site is highly recommended for even the most elegant graduation ceremony. There are also many ideas for help with graduation planning on this site.
- Ask homeschooling friends with graduated students for ideas and tips.
Things to Consider in Planning and Having a Homeschool Graduation
To order or obtain well in advance:
- The diploma
- Announcements
- Return address labels
- Cap and gown, if desired
- Thank you notes
- Graduation location reservations, if applicable
- A guest book
To think about as graduation day approaches:
- A special gift for the graduate
- Food for the gathering
- Themed paper goods, if applicable
- Decor for the event
- A photo presentation of the homeschooler for guests to see
- The guest list
- Sending out invitations & maps
The week of the homeschooling graduation event or party:
- List and gather any necessary materials
- Prepare music, if applicable
- Finalize food and confirm location
- Get new batteries and supplies for cameras and camcorders
- Prepare for the graduation ceremony itself
Whether a large gathering or a simple night out to dinner with just a few friends and family members, be sure to make the graduate feel special. This is her big night and it should be touching and memorable.
If the student is not really into "mushy stuff," consider writing a thoughtful letter for him or her to read in private. A special book with an inscription is also a meaningful remembrance.
In the end, remember that the graduation of a homeschool student is a big event for the parents as well. Savor the moments and enjoy the event.
For other articles about homeschooling high school, see Homeschool Through High School and Should You Homeschool High School?
A good homeschooling website is: aabc_homeschooling.
Janienne Jennrich - Janienne Jennrich, Topic Editor for Kids & Teen Parties and for Hair, is an award-winning freelance writer & webmaster.
