In Case of Emergency at a Merriweather Commencement

In the event of an emergency, school system and Merriweather Post Pavilion staff will follow the established emergency operations plan.

If we have to pause our ceremony for any reason, please pay close attention to the information that will be announced from the stage and sent out by text and email too.

If there is a need to evacuate during today’s ceremony, please exit the pavilion through the nearest exit and seek the nearest safe shelter. School staff members in security vests are waving to you right now from the exits at each of the four corners of the pavilion. Please note the location of your nearest exit and in case of emergency– walk, do not run to that exit.

If we are able to resume the ceremony, we will send out a text and email and also make announcements in the pavilion area.

If we are not able to resume the ceremony, diplomas will be available at the school. Information about distribution will be sent out.

For the 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. ceremonies:

Following the ceremony we ask that graduates, guests, and school staff avoid lingering in the pavilion area and vacate the parking lots as quickly as possible. This is necessary to ensure that those arriving for the next graduation are able to park and find a seat in advance of the ceremony that follows this one.

For the 7 p.m. ceremonies:

Following the ceremony we ask that graduates, guests, and school staff avoid lingering in the pavilion and vacate the parking lots as quickly as possible. The facility closes promptly at 10 p.m. so that staff can clean up and prepare for tomorrow’s graduations.

Thank you for your cooperation and congratulations to the Class of 2026!