June 4, 2026
Dear CWDHS Grads,
The graduation ceremonies planned for Thursday, June 25th are approaching, and we have more details to share.
There will be three ceremony times available for graduates and families to choose from. Two of these ceremonies will be larger, more traditional sit-down style ceremonies, beginning at approximately 5:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. These ceremonies will include the valedictorian speech and the opportunity to watch approximately half of the graduating class cross the stage and have their names announced.
The other ceremony option is intended for graduates who would prefer an alternative to a traditional sit-down ceremony. This option will run from approximately 6:15 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. During this time, graduates may attend with their families, walk across the stage, have their names announced, and take photographs. This option is a less formal, drop in style ceremony, and therefore the valedictorian speech will not be read.
We will provide more detailed information about your chosen ceremony time once we receive information from other attending graduates. We look forward to celebrating this exciting occasion with you! In the meantime, here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you prepare for your commencement.
Who can participate?
Any student who expects to graduate in the 2025/2026 school year can participate. This includes CWDHS students who are full time eLearners, earning graduating credits over the summer, and those completing external programs like SAL.
What time are the ceremonies?
The early large traditional ceremony starts at approximately 5:00 p.m.
The less formal, drop in style ceremony starts at approximately 6:15 p.m.
The late large traditional ceremony starts at approximately 7:30 p.m.
We will provide more detailed information about each ceremony time once information has been gathered from graduates.
How and when do I sign up for a ceremony?
A link has been sent to your grad on their school email and shared on the Grade 12 classroom. We will provide more detailed information about each ceremony once information has been gathered from graduates. Please complete the form by May 30th. Once the form has been submitted if any changes are needed please contact the office directly.
How many guests can I bring?
On the form linked above, each grad is asked how many guests they wish to bring to the ceremony. Once this information has been received, we will determine if a limit will be required (we hope there will not be a limit). Details of the number of guests you will be allowed to bring will be communicated closer to the event.
Do I receive my real diploma at the ceremony?
No. You will receive a celebratory scroll at the ceremony. You will be able to pick up your actual diploma and any awards and certificates you have earned, at CWDHS starting July 6th, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., throughout the summer. Please note, if a student is 18 we must have a note or phone call granting permission for a parent or guardian to pick up the diploma/award.
What about my French Immersion certificate?
Certificates will be placed in the envelope with your diploma for pick up.
When will the valedictorian address take place?
The valedictorian address will take place during the 5pm and 7:30pm ceremonies.
What about awards for those with the highest overall averages?
As the timing of this year’s ceremony is so close to the last day of exams, these awards will not be given out at the ceremony, but rather will be placed in the diploma envelopes of the recipients for pick up, and added to the award list on the program (accessed via a QR code).
What about the Honour Roll?
Students on the Honour Roll will be identified after final report cards are available in July. Students will be added to the award list on the program (accessed via a QR code).
Can my parents/guardians/guests get a photo of me receiving my celebratory scroll?
Yes. When you cross the stage, you will be able to stop for a moment so that your parents/guardians and guests can take a photograph. There will also be other opportunities for photos throughout the evening.
Is there a reception after the ceremony?
There will be a short reception following each ceremony where you will have an opportunity to take more photos. We ask that you be respectful of the time limits as we prepare for the ceremony for the next group of graduates.
What do I wear?
Many students choose to dress semi-formally, but you can wear whatever you choose. You will wear a graduation gown over your clothes through most of the ceremony.
What do I do if I have questions?
Please contact the main office if you have any questions.
Again, congratulations graduates! You have earned this celebration and we hope that you and your family are able to attend!
Sincerely,
Kevin Taylor
Principal
