How to Act at Hopatcong Graduations

in 2011, Patch spoke with Principal Emil Binotto and Principal Lou Benfatti about how family and friends should conduct themselves at graduation.

Well, with the high school's graduation on Thursday, preceded by Wednesday's middle school graduation, we thought now would be a good time to revisit those pointers.

So, keep these in mind when attending the ceremonies. And don't forget, above all else, to have fun.

DO Get there early. "Parking is at a premium," Binotto said.

DON'T Show up without a ticket. "You'd be coming for nothing," Binotto said.

DO Dress appropriately. "We'll be down to the wire with whether we'll have it inside or outside, depending on the weather patterns here," Benfatti said.

DON'T Act out of character. "In years past it's been a free-for-all and we overloaded the gym," Benfatti said.

DO Listen. The high school will feature speeches from the senior valedictorian, salutatorian, Superintendent Dr. Charles Maranzano, Board of Education President Cliff Lundin, Binotto and the senior class president. The middle school ceremony will feature remarks from Maranzano, Benfatti and a school board member.

DON'T Bring stuff you might leave behind. Binotto said water bottles won't be permitted if the high school's graduation ends up inside. He also said police and ticket takers will monitor the crowd. Don't bring flowers or water balloons or beach balls, either, Binotto said.

DO Expect to be there more than an hour.

DON'T Worry about Project Grad. Students won't have to be at the high school cafeteria until 9:30 p.m.

DO Show some respect. "We'd like to have everybody observe the dignity of the ceremony," Binotto said.

DON'T Ever forget the moment your loved one grabs his or her diploma.