Gurrie Middle School

Class 2026 – Graduation Details

When: May 26, 2025

Time: Ceremony will start at 5:00 pm (students must arrive at 4:30)

Location: Local 150 Union Hall, 6200 Joliet Road, Countryside, Illinois 60525

Tickets: Each student will receive 5 tickets. No additional tickets will be available.

Gown and Medallion Cost: $35.00 (Request Letter to complete)

As we head toward graduation, we are excited to celebrate our eighth-grade students and the milestones ahead. Please mark the following important dates on your calendar:

April 24
Optional Capstone Project Submission
Students may participate in the Capstone Project to recognize and highlight a District 105 staff member who has made a meaningful impact on their educational journey.

May 4
Capstone Celebration Event
We will celebrate participating students and honor the staff members they recognize during this special showcase.

May 20
Graduation Yard Signs Distributed
Students will receive their graduation yard signs to take home and display as we celebrate their upcoming milestone.

May 21
Great America Trip
Students will participate in the end-of-year celebratory trip. Additional details and expectations will be shared in advance.

May 22
Graduation Preparation Day
Students will receive their graduation gown and five ceremony tickets.
Students will also return Chromebooks, chargers, and hotspots if applicable, and clean out their lockers.

May 26
Graduation Rehearsal and Ceremony

Morning Schedule
Students report to school at their usual time and attend advisory before taking the bus to the ceremony venue for rehearsal.
Students will return to Gurrie and be dismissed at approximately 11:30 a.m. Bus service will be available.

Evening Ceremony
Students should arrive at the venue by 4:30 p.m., wearing their graduation gowns. They will line up and prepare to enter before the ceremony begins at 5:00 p.m. Guest seating opens at 4:30 p.m. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

The ceremony will last approximately one hour. At the conclusion, graduates will recess out of the building.

Ceremony Expectations
If bringing balloons, please store them along the back wall during the ceremony to avoid blocking views.
Guests should remain seated and not approach the stage for photos during diploma distribution.
Photos may be taken from your seat, and a professional photographer will capture each student receiving their diploma.

Accessibility
If accessible seating is needed, please contact the office at 708-482-2720 to make arrangements. 

Please contact Dr. Mendoza or the main office with any questions. We look forward to celebrating our students and honoring the accomplishments of the Class of 2026. It will be a wonderful evening filled with pride, joy, and Tiger spirit.

8th Grade Graduation FAQ

When and where is graduation?
The ceremony will take place on Tuesday, May 26, at 5:00 p.m. at the Local 150 Banquet Hall, 6200 Joliet Road in Countryside.

What time should families arrive?
Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Seating is first-come, first-served, so families are encouraged to arrive early.

How many tickets does each family receive?
Each family will receive five tickets when students receive their gowns. We are unable to redistribute tickets or offer additional tickets.

What is the cost for the Gown and Medallion? 

$35

What time should students arrive?
Students should arrive by 4:30 p.m., wearing their graduation gown and ready to line up for the ceremony.

How long is the ceremony?
The ceremony will last approximately one hour.

Will photos be allowed?
Yes. Families may take photos from their seats. Guests should not approach the stage during diploma distribution. A professional photographer will capture each student receiving their diploma.

Can we bring balloons or gifts?
Yes. Balloons must be stored against the back wall during the ceremony to avoid obstructing other guests' views.

How does the morning of graduation work for students?
Students report to school at their usual time and attend advisory before boarding the bus for rehearsal. They return to Gurrie and are dismissed around 11:30 a.m. Bus service is available.

When do students receive gowns and tickets?
Students will receive their gown and five tickets on May 22.

When do students return Chromebooks and clean lockers?
Students will return Chromebooks and clean out lockers on May 22.

When will students receive yard signs?
Yard signs will be distributed on May 20.

What if my student still owes fees?
Any outstanding fees should be resolved before graduation. Please contact the main office if you have questions.

Is accessible seating available?
Yes. Please contact the office at 708-482-2720 to arrange accessible seating.

Who should I contact with additional questions?
Please contact the principal, Dr. Mendoza, or the main office. We are happy to assist and look forward to celebrating our students and their accomplishments.

DOREEN DUNCAN AWARD

This award is presented to a female graduate who most closely demonstrates the student performance and qualities of Doreen Duncan, a 1982 graduate of Gurrie who died in a skiing accident during the winter of 1984. The award seeks to identify an outstanding graduate in scholarship, citizenship, extracurricular activities, school service, leadership, and personal character.

DUANE CAYLOR AWARD

This award is presented to a male graduate who most closely demonstrates the qualities promoted and exemplified by Duane Caylor, a beloved teacher at Gurrie for years who lost a courageous battle with cancer in 1999. The award seeks to identify an outstanding graduate in scholarship, citizenship, extracurricular activities, school service, leadership, and personal character.

AMERICAN LEGION AWARD

This award is presented annually to Gurrie graduates. The American Legion Award is based on these qualities: honor, scholarship, service, character, courage, companionship, and leadership.

DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

This award is presented annually to Gurrie graduates. The D.A.R. is given for outstanding ability and accomplishments in the studies of American History and Civic Education.  

GOLD CORDS: FACULTY AWARD FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

This award is presented to graduates who maintain a cumulative 3.95 GPA for the entire Two-year period.

WHITE CHORD: SERVICE HOURS

50 + Outstanding Service Hours Award

BLUE AND GOLD: PERFECT ATTENDANCE

This award is presented to students who maintain a 95% or better attendance for the entire two-year period. 

LEADERSHIP PIN: PRINCIPAL GRADE LEVEL LEADERSHIP TEAM

This award recognizes students who served on the Grade Level Leadership Team and partnered with the principal to strengthen our school community.