Congratulations to the HHS Class of 2019

By Carol Meyer

There are a couple of changes in store for the Hingham High School Class of 2019 -- the ceremony will start at 10 a.m. rather than the usual 5 p.m., and all 279 graduates will wear red robes rather than the traditional red for boys and white for girls.

The time of the event was changed to avoid conflicts with the girls' and boys' track teams state championship meets.

The decision to go to all red robes was to promote inclusiveness among the graduating class and to do away with gender-based graduation robe colors in compliance with Massachusetts Department of Education directives.

Students had a say in the final decision. Some students and parents were unhappy with the change while others thought it was a good idea.

"The most inspiring thing about our class is our togetherness in spite of all of our individual differences," said Class President Billy Johnston.

Principal Rick Swanson had this to say about the graduating class: "You have already made big contributions to our school, and I’m sure you’ll continue to do so during your final time here at HHS.  This entire community (not just your friends, classmates and parents, but your whole school, including your principal) is proud of you, and we’re all eager to support you as you move forward."

The ceremony will take place Saturday, June 1, at 10 a.m. on the turf field, weather permitting. Otherwise, it will be held indoors in the gym. 

​What is your favorite part of HHS graduation ceremonies?  
The band music, the student speeches, seeing the graduates march across the field, or watching them accept their diplomas?