High School Graduate Information 2026

High School Graduate Information 2026
April 29 – Seniors will receive checkout information during RAM Time.
April 30 – Graduate Decision Day – Southeast Polk High School will celebrate National Decision Day, giving seniors the opportunity to share their post-secondary plans, including college, military, apprenticeships, or careers. Activities will take place throughout the day, primarily during RAM Time and in the counseling office, with opportunities for both students and staff to participate. Seniors are encouraged to wear something representing their future plans and stop by the counseling office to take part in activities, while staff are invited to join in by representing their alma mater and supporting students as they plan for their futures.
April 30 – Decision Day Workshop will be held in the Multi-Purpose Room from 8:00 AM–1:00 PM. Whether you’re starting a an application to any college or finalizing your post-secondary enrollment, we’re here to help you move forward with confidence. Special “DMACC Next Steps” sessions will also be available for future DMACC students. Sign-up to learn more. Visit our College and Career webpage for details.
May 1 – Student-Athlete College Signing Day will be held in the Auditorium at 2:30 PM. Join us in celebrating seniors continuing their athletic careers at the next level. Click here to stay up to date with our signees.
May 1 – Senior Graduation Slideshow submissions are due. Complete the form to be included. Only one submission per student will be accepted. This is a firm deadline—late submissions will not be accepted.
May 12 & 14 – Senior Reassessment Days – Students must turn in their checkout sheet after they have completed reassessments and be in good academic standing to participate in graduation.
May 13 – Senior Honors Assembly at 1:30 PM in the High School Gymnasium (livestream available).
May 13 – Dollars for Scholars at 7:00 PM in the High School Gymnasium (invite only, livestream available).
- Red Cord Recipients – LifeServe has provided a list of seniors who have met the requirements for the Donor of Distinction program. These students will be recognized at the Senior Honors Assembly and presented with a red cord. To qualify, students must have registered to donate blood at least three times before graduation. If you believe you meet this requirement but are not on the list, please contact school counselor Valerie Powell.
May 14 – Seniors’ last day of school.
May 15 – Cap and gown pickup from 8:00–9:00 AM in the pool lobby, followed by Graduation Rehearsal at 9:00 AM. Participation in rehearsal is required for the ceremony.
May 17 – Graduation Ceremony at 6:00 PM at the Knapp Center (Drake University). Tickets are not necessary to attend the ceremony. Livestream available.
- Fees Reminder – All student fees (textbooks, Chromebooks, parking, lunch accounts, activities, etc.) must be paid in order to participate in the graduation ceremony.
- Tickets are not necessary to attend the ceremony
- Only medallions and cords received at the Honors Assembly may be worn at graduation. No additional decorations are permitted.
May 18 – Diplomas may be picked up at the high school starting Monday, May 18. Diplomas will not be mailed.
Visit the Counselors webpage for additional information.
