LISD and UISD prepare for end of classes, graduation ceremonies

LAREDO, Tex. (KGNS) - With school security on the minds of many in Texas, especially now with graduation ceremonies just days away, local school districts are sharing what families should be aware of before they watch their loved one walk across the stage.

As we approach the end of the school year, the end of the week will be a busy one.

Over 4,000 Laredo students are set to receive their diplomas by the end of the week.

For LISD students, Wednesday, May 24 is the last day of classes and for the 2022—2023 school year.

There are some rules for the last day of classes, for example, the district is not allowing backpacks on campus.

“That’s for the safety and security of everybody, students and staff alike. They can bring their chrome books with them to school because there still is some teaching and learning going on, even on the last day of school,” said Veronica Castillon.

As for United ISD, the last day of classes is Thursday May 25.

On Monday, the district announced that no backpacks were allowed for their entire last week of school.

After the last week of school comes the fun part for seniors and graduating juniors.

Starting this Friday evening and going all the way into Saturday, UISD reminds families of some of the dos and don’ts for graduation ceremonies.

“The Sames Auto Arena doesn’t allow of course the large bags, the backpacks, confetti, noise makers, balloons, any glass vases. So we want to make sure that parents are not sent back to their vehicles, we’re trying to get the information out to all of our families that will be attending our graduation ceremonies to make sure that it’s a pleasant environment for everybody,” said Rebecca Morales.

In the end, both districts say following all security policies is to bring a happy ceremony for everyone.

“It’s a day of achievement, and of success, and celebrating their graduation from high school, and they’re entering into college, careers, or the military,” said Castillon.

LISD is expected to have over 1,500 students to graduate from three of its high schools and early college high school.

As for UISD, it is 3,080 students who are expected to receive their diplomas from the four high schools.

LISD reminds families you need a ticket to enter the venue, which students can get from their high school principal.

As for UISD, each high school graduate will be given eight tickets for their ceremony.

Now a reminder on traffic near the Sames Auto Arena and Loop 20 is expected to be busy.

Officials are asking drivers to plan ahead and expect some delays.

Doors will open one hour before each graduation starts.

You can check the graduation schedule for both UISD and LISD here.

Doors open one hour before each graduation ceremony.

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