High school graduation ceremonies are supposed to be joyous occasions. They are a moment — sometimes a very long moment — marking a significant milestone in the lives of not only the graduates but of the families that have raised them and have every right to share their happiness.
They are not supposed to be a wake. Not a solemn procession even more dark and dour than most modern funerals. And they most certainly should not be the last opportunity some officious high school deputy administrator has to squash the spirit of their students.
Thus the disappointment expressed by more than a few recent graduates, and their families, over the decisions by some high schools and the managers of some commencement venues that serve mostly to kill the moment.