According to a communication emailed last week from Clarkston High School Principal Gary Kaul, the 2022 Commencement ceremony will take place earlier than normal this year, on May 25 at the familiar location of DTE Energy Music Theatre.
“The Commencement plans for the Class of 2022 began immediately following the 2021 graduation ceremony,” said Kaul. “At that time, we locked in the date of Monday, June 6, 2022, with DTE (Energy Music Theatre). From there, we worked backward to plan our seniors’ year-end schedule of activities and disseminate information.  Recently we experienced difficulties with the previously selected June 6 date. A clause in our contract with DTE stipulates that commencement could be bumped should the venue be needed for another event. A conflict is now forcing us to recommit to an alternate date…some guy named Robert Plant who played in a little band called Led Zeppelin.  While frustrating, we understand, given the nature of their business during COVID. Many acts that canceled tour dates are now rescheduling with priority at concert venues.”
That week for the seniors will now be tweaked: May 23 – Senior exams hours 3-6, May 24 – Senior exams hours 1-2, (also seniors’ last day), May 24 – Senior Walk & Picnic, May 25 – Commencement at DTE, May 26 – Prom.
“Although we had very few options, we believe this date will satisfy our needs and allow our seniors to have a tremendous end to their high school experience,” Kaul said. “As is customary, detailed information regarding these events will be shared with parents during the second semester.
“Thank you for your patience and understanding.”