Welcome, Class of 2026, and congratulations, graduates!

This page is your official, comprehensive guide for the Class of 2026 Graduation! Included are your CavCard requirements, ceremony details, FAQ's, and more.

*We are committed to providing our families with the most accurate information possible. Please be sure to regularly check ParentSquare, our school website, and the Richland Two website for the most up-to-date information.

Quick Links

Order Your Cap, Gown, and Diploma Cover

Saving your Google Drive and Pictures

CavCard - Graduation Clearance

What is the CavCard?

The CavCard indicates that a student has met all of the requirements to participate in the graduation ceremony.

Seniors: the physical CavCard will be needed to enter the arena on graduation day! You have earned it--don't lose it!

Clearance Requirements

Meet the academic requirements for graduation
Submit the Senior Survey
Complete your Parchment Request
Turn in your Chromebook (and hotspot, if applicable)
Return all textbooks
Pay school fees and debts

Who to contact

Graduation Logistics & Senior Events

Attendace Retrieval / Credit Recovery

Academics / Parchment / Survey

Chromebooks & Technology Incident Fees

Graduates Ceremony Checklist

Hang your gown several days before graduation to eliminate wrinkles. You can use a steamer to help; do not iron.
Arrive at Colonial Life Arena by 7:00 AM.
Enter via Gadsden Street. Do not enter through the front of the Arena.

Under-Gown Attire:
- Dress shirt or blouse with a collar
- Slacks, dress pants, or a dress/skirt that is shorter than the graduation gown
- Dress shoes; Dress shoes should be comfortable enough for standing/walking for prolonged periods and must securely fasten to the foot.

Only cords and regalia earned through coursework, sports, clubs, and organizations sponsored by Richland Northeast can be worn. Non-school cords and regalia are not allowed.

This is your moment—please be present in it! Cell phone and headphone use is strictly prohibited during the ceremony.

Do not bring bags, purses, or large personal items. There is nowhere to store additional items.

You will only receive the diploma cover during the ceremony; return to the staging area after the ceremony to pick up your diploma.

Family & Friends Planning Guide

Colonial Life Arena Information

Doors will open at 7:30 a.m. for family and friends.
There are no tickets required for entrance.
All guests will be required to go through a security screening upon entry. Please allow extra time for this process.

Guests are asked to respect the significance of this ceremony for every graduate and their families. Please honor each student's moment by refraining from disruptive noise or actions that could interrupt the ceremony's flow or prevent others from hearing names announced.
Pre-plan a meeting destination with your graduate after the ceremony. Share a live location via cell phone if able.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Where will families and other guests park?

There are numerous surface lots and parking garages near Colonial Life Arena. Please note that most of the parking options for the arena are paid lots operated by USC, the City of Columbia, and businesses in downtown Columbia.

Traffic will likely be HEAVY with graduation participants and families in addition to normal downtown commuting traffic. Please time your arrival to allow for parking, walking to the venue, meeting up with family and friends, and getting settled into your seats. Doors will open one hour before the start of commencement.

For more about Directions and Parking for Colnial Life Arena, click here.