Graduation Events - Class of 2022

When will we get our caps and gowns?

Caps and gowns will be distributed after students complete their college plan information with our College Counselor Mrs. Nevett. Students will receive information in advisory about this. 

What do I wear to the Closing Liturgy?

You should wear your graduation gown (ironed), light-colored formal clothing, sensible shoes (no cap, no tassel, and no academic regalia—no cords, pins, etc.). Please bring your cap for the photo following the liturgy. Please steam your gown or iron very carefully with a cloth between the iron and gown.

What do I wear for the graduation practice?

You should wear your graduation gown (ironed), academic regalia (cords, medals, and pins), tassel, light colored formal clothing, sensible shoes, and cap. You will be taking your graduation photo with the Head of School at this time.

What do I wear for Baccalaureate Mass?

You should wear your graduation gown (steamed or lightly ironed), light-colored formal clothing, sensible shoes (no cap, no tassel, and no academic regalia—no cords, pins, etc.).

What am I required to wear under my graduation gown? What type of shoes?

Students are required to wear formal clothing. Light-colored dresses/clothing are preferred, since the graduation gown is white and bright colors show through. You may wear shoes of your choice, but please be aware that heels should be moderate.

What do I need to wear for the Graduation Ceremony?

You should wear your graduation gown (steamed or ironed), academic regalia (cords, medals, and pins), tassel, light colored formal clothing, sensible shoes, and cap. Graduates may wear flowers, leis, and other decorations after the ceremony only. Do not decorate your cap. It must be plain.

When do I receive my graduation tickets? How many does my family receive?

Each graduate will receive 10 tickets in advisory in May. Students will receive more information in advisory. 

If you would like to request additional tickets, please email Caroline Small by May 27. If additional tickets are available, the school will determine ticketing through a lottery system and will contact students the week before graduation.

Who do I contact if I have a relative who needs ADA access?

Please contact Ms. Small with any special needs for your family: (650) 762-1104 or csmall@mercyhsb.com.

Where do I park? 

St. Pius has parking lots. We advise carpooling or rideshare if possible. 

How long does the graduation ceremony last? 

Please allow at least two hours for the ceremony. Gathering at St. Pius is not permitted after the ceremony. 

Do we get our picture taken when we receive our diploma?

You will be taking your picture receiving your diploma (posed) at the graduation practice. Your family should not leave their seats to take photographs during the graduation ceremony.

Conduct at graduation: 

The Mercy graduation is a formal ritual, one that takes place in a church. As the setting suggests, this is different from an athletic event or performance. Please do not clap or yell during the ceremony itself, especially during the time when the names are read. We want every family to be able to hear their daughter’s name. Thank you for respecting the formality and importance of the ceremony. 

Guest conduct at graduation:

Handheld devices for photography and short videos are allowed, but no additional photography equipment is permitted. The ceremony will be recorded and live streamed.

Does everyone attend Baccalaureate Mass?

You will certainly want to attend the mass since this is the last time your class will celebrate liturgy together. (The Baccalaureate Mass is held at Our Lady of Angels.)

Who do I give my college scholarship information to?

Your college counselor Mrs. Nevett  is collecting your college scholarship information.