Habersham Central updates graduation plans due to weather

MT. AIRY, Ga. — Habersham Central High School has updated plans for Friday night’s graduation ceremony due to the threat of severe weather.

According to Principal Adam Bagwell, graduation for the Class of 2026 is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. Friday at Raider Stadium, weather permitting. If lightning delays the start, the ceremony will begin as soon as conditions are safe.

To ensure graduates receive their diplomas, school officials changed the ceremony order. Following the Presentation of Colors, Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem, students will receive diplomas near the beginning of the ceremony. If weather allows, the remaining program will continue afterward.

HCHS alum, Kimberly Schlapman, of the country music group Little Big Town, is scheduled to deliver this year’s graduation address. Schlapman was named this year’s HCHS Lifetime Achievement Award recipient. She will be honored in a separate ceremony in the high school cafeteria at 5 p.m. ahead of graduation.

Stadium rules and traffic flow

Stadium gates opened to the public at 3 p.m. Camp Creek Road will close to traffic at 4:30 p.m. Umbrellas, balloons, drones and large signs will not be allowed inside the stadium.

Family members and guests will not be allowed on the field before or during the ceremony, but may enter afterward to meet graduates.

Shuttle buses will run continuously between the main school parking lots and Raider Stadium beginning at 5 p.m. and continuing for one hour after the ceremony. Handicap parking for those with state-issued disability permits will be available at the Ninth Grade Academy near the main stadium entrance.

School officials said the changes are intended to provide a safe and orderly graduation ceremony while monitoring weather conditions throughout the evening.