Frequently Asked Questions

(Last updated 5-20-22)

Q: When is the TJHSST graduation ceremony?

A: TJHSST graduation will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 4, 2022.

Q: Where will graduation be held?

A: TJHSST graduation will be held at  EagleBank Arena on the campus of George Mason University. 

Q: How many guests are permitted at graduation?

A: There is no limit to the number of guests who may attend the graduation ceremony. 

Q: How long is the ceremony going to last?

A: The ceremony will last approximately 1.5 hours. 

Q: What time should seniors and parents/guests arrive at the ceremony?

A: Graduates need to report to the EagleBank Arena on the campus of George Mason University at 6:00 p.m.  Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. for parents and guests. 

Q: What are some other graduation day notes that we should know?

A: A few more important notes for the ceremony on June 4.

• Transportation to EagleBank Arena is not being provided by the school. We encourage you to drive together as a family to ensure on-time arrival. 
• Be prepared for warm temperatures and navigating arena seating. 
• At this time, there are no mask requirements at EagleBank Arena.
  • However, for health reasons, particularly with the community's rise in COVID cases, we encourage masks in large group settings as recommended by the FCHD and CDC. A student can exercise personal choice to wear or not wear a mask. Any senior who tests positive for COVID within five days of graduation will not be permitted to participate in the ceremony or attend as a guest.

• Bag Check Policy: There will be a bag check conducted on all guests coming to the event. No exceptions. In order to help enhance the contactless experience, EagleBank Arena is encouraging guests to not bring a bag. If a guest requires a bag for personal or health reasons, we strongly recommend that patrons bring something small and/or clear to expedite the screening process.

  Students should only carry their car keys on them, leaving their cell phones and any other electronic devices with their guests. If they need to carry something on them for a medical reason, please see an administrator.

• Prohibited Items: Prohibited items include weapons, outside food or beverage, fireworks, balloons, noisemakers, non-service animals, illegal drugs, laser pointers, luggage/oversized bags, flags/banners that could block someone’s view, any size pole or stick (medical aids such as canes/crutches are permitted), drones, bottles/cans/containers/coolers, skateboards/rollerblades/hoverboards, projectiles (frisbees, footballs, inflatable balls, etc.), and unapproved pamphlets/handouts/etc.

  EagleBank Arena reserves the right to prohibit any other item which is deemed unsafe or inappropriate, and will not check or store any prohibited item. It is important for the prohibited items list to be shared with graduates and attendees in advance.

Q: Will food or drinks be available?

A: No, concessions will not be available.

Q: When is the graduation rehearsal?

A: Graduation Rehearsal will be Thursday, June 2, 2022 at 9:30 a.m. in the TJHSST main gym and attendance is mandatory. Seniors should arrive at TJ after 9:00 a.m. and be seated in the TJ Main Gym by 9:25 a.m. for the start of rehearsal. Please e-mail the Director of Student Services as soon as possible if you cannot attend this mandatory rehearsal.  Graduation rehearsal is for students only.  

Q: When will I receive my cap and gown?

A: Cap and Gowns, Service Learning Cords, and Tassels will be distributed after graduation rehearsal on June 2, 2022.   Please be aware that if you have any financial obligations you will not receive a Cap and Gown until those obligations are cleared with the Finance Office.  Seniors MUST bring any items belonging to the school that they have not already returned on June 2.

Q: What should I wear under my gown?

A: FCPS DRESS CODE IS STILL IN EFFECT

• Comfort is key.
• Plan for the weather of the day. While the arena is air conditioned, it can get warm.  
• Gowns will be worn for the entire ceremony. 
• We strongly recommend modest heels for any student wishing to wear a shoe with a heel.  Students will be standing for an extended period of time before the ceremony begins.

Q: Where can I find information about video and photograph sales?

A: Video sales of the event will be available and can be purchased via Memories Videography.  Go to the online DVD order form. Paper copies of the order form are available for pickup in Student Services if needed.

Photographs will be taken at the event by Lifetouch and will be available for order at their website here.   Pictures will be uploaded and viewable 10 days after the ceremony, but you can follow the steps listed on the website to be notified once the pictures are ready for viewing.

Q: Will there be seating for persons with disabilities?

A: Yes, there is plenty of accessible seating and parking. To be seated in a wheelchair accessible location, EagleBank Arena staff will be available to assist. If you require seating that minimizes stairs, we suggest selecting seats in rows E, F, and G.

Q: I have a family member who requires ASL translation. Are services available for signing?

A: Yes. Please e-mail Elizabeth West at [email protected] as soon as possible but no later than May 2, 2022 to arrange for these services.

Q: Can/Should I iron my gown?

A: No, please do not iron your gown. It will melt. Hang it in the bathroom and turn on a hot shower for about 20-30 minutes and the wrinkles should fall right out.

Q: Can I decorate my cap?

A: No. In order to maintain the dignity of the ceremony, we ask that you do not alter your caps.

Q: What side of the cap does the tassel go on?

A: It will go on the RIGHT side. This will allow the photographer the ability to have a clear picture of the graduate during the diploma presentation by the Principal. 

Q: Where do we meet back up after the ceremony?

A: Make plans with your family in advance for a meeting place outside of EagleBank Arena. Graduates will process out of the Arena and towards the East Balcony and North side of the building. Students will only be permitted to have their car key with them, no cell phones. 

Other questions?  

Reach out to your counselor in Student Services.