Academics
Upper School

Commencement 2026

We look forward to celebrating the Class of 2026’s graduation on June 5, 2026.

This page will serve as the school’s primary information resource on all things related to Commencement and the celebratory events leading up to it.

Please check back often to check for updates. Unless otherwise noted below, questions may be directed to commencement@polytechnic.org.


Important Information

Family Seating

This year’s ceremony will take place under the traditional Commencement tent on Babcock Field. Each graduate will be able to reserve up to six adjoining seats in the Reserved 1 seating area closest to the stage. Graduates with more than six guests will be able to reserve up to six additional seats in the Reserved 2 seating area, directly behind the Reserved 1 section (a total of twelve seats per student). These reservations must be made no later than Friday, May 8, by filling out our Commencement Seating Request Form, which will go live in the coming weeks. From all received RSVP’s, seating assignments will be made via random drawing during the week of May 11.

For two-household families that require separate sets of seats, please fill out separate forms for each household.

We can also accommodate guests requesting wheelchair access with advanced notice, as specified on the form. 

Additional seating will be available in the General area behind both sections. That additional seating will remain unassigned and can be claimed on a first-come, first-served basis on the afternoon of Commencement.

Livestream

Poly will livestream both the Honors Day and Commencement ceremonies for family and friends not able to attend the event. Both events will be viewable on Poly's YouTube page.

Commencement Attire for Graduates

  • Navy Commencement gown and cap with orange and white graduation cords, provided by Polytechnic School. Commencement gowns should be worn over either slacks and a shirt or a dress. Caps are not to be decorated. Gowns need to be returned at the end of the ceremony.
  • We politely request that the orange and white Poly cords are the only cords worn by the graduates.
  • Active members of Poly recognized affinity groups can wear stoles provided by the affinity groups.
  • Please, no sunglasses, gum-chewing, or phones during the processional and ceremony. Flower leis may be worn following the ceremony.



Parking and Accessibility

Event parking will be available in the Polytechnic parking garage, which can be accessed from the west side of Wilson Avenue just south of California Boulevard. Look for the POLY EVENT PARKING sign.

Please do not park in the neighborhoods surrounding the school. We encourage your arrival at least 30 minutes in advance of the Commencement ceremony. We also strongly encourage the use of shared ride services.

For attendees with special needs, please use the drop-off circle on Wilson Ave. Shuttles will be available to assist attendees to the field. Cars can then be parked in the parking structure. Both floors of the parking structure have access to the main level via elevators in the middle of the structure. Please email commencement@polytechnic.org with questions.

We ask that you kindly help us be good neighbors by obeying all traffic laws and by not parking on the adjacent residential streets. We also ask that you share this information with family members who will be attending. 


Diploma and Program

In the spring, all seniors will receive an email through which they can confirm the spelling and pronunciation of their names to be used for all Commencement-related materials and activities, including their diploma and the printed event program. We encourage parents and caregivers to discuss their preferences directly with their graduating seniors.




Commencement Invitations

Free invitations will be available by request beginning in May. Please contact Ryder Livingston to place your order and schedule pick-up.

 

Commencement Photography

To allow families to enjoy the celebration, the Communications Department will be taking photos of Commencement, including seniors receiving their diplomas, and will make them available on the photo archive on Vidigami. In addition, Poly will live stream Commencement and provide a link to graduates to share with families not able to attend the event.

Important Dates

  • Monday, May 18: Senior Dinner (seniors only) at 5 p.m., Bracker/Countryman Residence 

  • Tuesday, May 19: Performing Arts Celebration (Performing arts students and parents of Performing Arts seniors) at 6 p.m., Garland Auditorium

  • Thursday, May 21: Chalk Day (parents welcome after 3:30 p.m.), McWilliams Courtyard

  • Thursday, May 21: College Bound event (seniors and parents) at 6:30 p.m., Garland Auditorium 

  • Friday, May 22: Global Scholars Luncheon ‘26 at 12:00 p.m., Arden Lawn 

  • Monday, May 25 - Friday, May 29: Senior Outdoor Education Trip to the Kern River

  • Sunday, May 31: Senior Video (5 p.m. in Garland) and Family Picnic (to follow on Arden Lawn)

  • Tuesday, June 2: Last Day of school, special schedule. Commencement rehearsal TBD

  • Wednesday, June 3: Senior Sports Awards at 5 p.m., Garland Auditorium

  • Thursday, June 4: Commencement speaker and musician rehearsal TBD

  • Friday, June 5: Honors Day at 9 a.m., Babcock Field

  • Friday, June 5: Commencement at 6 p.m., Babcock Field
Additional Commencement-week information will be shared with senior families as event details are confirmed. Please refer back to this webpage for the most current and available information.

Family Portraits

More info to come!
1030 E. California Blvd
Pasadena, Ca 91106
626-396-6300
communications@polytechnic.org

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