Cullman Homeschool Connection  is honored to be able to offer a traditional graduation ceremony open to all homeschoolers. We are experienced with graduation as our director has also volunteered with Timeless Homeschool Events. CHC is not a cover school, and therefore, will not provide your graduate with a diploma; however, we have partnered with Homeschooldiploma.com to make it easier for you to obtain your graduation supplies.  You are free to buy them elsewhere, but parents supply the cap, gown, tassel, diploma, diploma cover, invitations, and any other desired regalia such as honor stoles.  We reccomend honor stoles for any graduate who has participated in a dual enrollment program.

What type of ceremony will this be?

This will be a traditional graduation ceremony, much like those at public high schools.

Where will it be held? Our ceremony will be held in the Jake C. Bailey Center Auditorium at Wallace State community College in  Hanceville, AL.

Who will present diplomas? The Parents  or our master of ceremonies (parent's choice) will present a diploma to each graduate in a formal ceremony.  A photographer will be taking pictures of each presentation.  If the parent chooses not to present their graduates diploma, the diploma must be given to Connections staff at check in.

Will there be a Senior Slideshow? Yes. Seniors will be emailed this information  after registration.

Will there be a valedictorian? Because we are not a cover school, and do not choose valedictorians, we are unable to have a valedictorian speaker at our graduation ceremony. Instead, we will have a student speaker. Graduates who would like to be considered for this honor are asked to write their speech in essay form and submit it for consideration. These speeches will be anonymously judged by a third party. One speaker will be chosen to address the audience on behalf of the 2023 graduates. The deadline for submissions is March 1, 2023.  Essays should  be sent to connection@cullmanhomeschool.com. Please put “Homeschool Graduation Student Speaker" in the subject line.

When is rehearsal? In the interest of easier scheduling for our graduates and their families, we will have a rehearsal the day of the ceremony at 1:00 PM. Please arrive on time so that we may begin rehearsal promptly.

What color are the caps and gowns? Students are responsible for purchasing their own graduation supplies. We have partnered with homeschooldiploma.com to offer a complete graduation package including the Cap, Gown, Tassel, Diploma, Diploma Cover, and invitations, but parents are free to purchase from any source.  A Special link will be provided to each graduate after registration Graduates are free to choose their preferred color. Please note that business casual dress (no athletic shoes, shorts, flip-flops, or jeans) is required to be worn underneath the caps and gowns. If ordering independently please make sure you purchase a tassel as well.

Can the students decorate their hats? Students are welcome to decorate the tops of their mortarboards. Please keep all decorations on the top of the mortarboard G-rated and in a flat style (nothing elevated above the hat). Pinterest is a great inspiration for decorating ideas. Students, we will be throwing hats at the end of the ceremony!

What is the dress code? All participants are required to wear business casual dress. NO athletic shoes, shorts, flip-flops, or jeans are allowed.

Will there be a photographer? A professional photographer will be on hand the day of graduation, photos from the event will be made available at no additional charge to the families. You are also welcome to take your own photos. A selfie booth will also be provided.

What is the cost? Registration is $100 through February 28th and late registration is $125 from March 1 through April 2. Additional tickets are needed for family and friends who would like to attend the ceremony, but tickets for guests are free. They should be added to your cart when the graduate ticket is purchased.

SCHOLARSHIPS ARE AVAILABLE for those with limited income, please contact connection@cullmanhomeschool.com

Do you have to be a local student to graduate in this ceremony? No. There are no requirements as to geographical location, cover school, etc. Any homeschool senior who would like to take part is welcome. Please note that graduates are only able to participate in this ceremony once.

What if I won’t complete the requirements for my diploma until later in the year? Anyone who is eligible to graduate during the year of 2023 is welcome to join us.

What about diplomas? Parents are responsible for applying for and obtaining diplomas.  We have a one stop package option with homeschooldiploma.com that includes everything you need and allows you to personalize your diploma and cover.  

Is there a reception following the ceremony? No, however there are a variety of restaurants in the area where groups can meet up afterwards.