Eastside High School

Date: May 19, 2026
Time: 8:00 PM
Location: Sharp Stadium

Gates & Tickets:

  • Each graduate will receive seven (7) tickets.
  • All guests, including infants, must have a ticket for entry.
  • Tickets will be distributed on May 15: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
  • Graduates must pick up their own tickets; all fines & technology holds must be cleared in order to obtain tickets.
  • Guests for graduates with last names beginning with A-P will enter through the HOME gate.
  • Guests for graduates with last names beginning with R-Z will enter through the VISITOR gate.
  • All graduates must arrive between 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM. No entry allowed before 6:30 PM. Graduates must be signed in by 7:30 PM. Note: For security purposes, all graduates will be subject to weapons detection screening upon entering the stadium.

Stadium Security:

  • All guests will be subject to weapons detection screening upon entering the stadium.
  • Only clear bags will be allowed in the stadium.
  • Guests and graduates are prohibited from bringing noisemakers, outside food/drinks, balloons, signs, and any other items that may cause a disruption to the ceremony or impede the view of others.
  • Personal drones are strictly prohibited at Sharp Stadium.

Dress Code:

  • Business casual attire (dress pants/skirts or khakis, khaki shorts, button-up / collared shirts or blouses), no gym shorts, jeans, t-shirts, or flip flops are permitted.
  • Graduates wearing heels should choose a block heel or wedge. Stiletto heels are not permitted on the stadium turf.
  • Do not alter or decorate caps or gowns. Gowns must be worn and zipped while on the field.
  • No purses are permitted on the field.
  • Only cords and stoles issued by Eastside High School or Newton College and Career Academy are acceptable to wear. Only medals or medallions issued to the valedictorian and salutatorian may be worn. Seek approval for items issued by military recruiters.

Ceremony:

  • Commencement ceremony will begin promptly at 8:00 PM
  • A pyrotechnics display will begin during the turning of the tassel.
  • The graduation ceremony will be live-streamed on Newton County Schools’ YouTube channel.

Following the Ceremony:

  • No guests are permitted on the field.
  • Please exit the stadium in a timely manner.
  • Diploma covers will be administered at graduation.
  • Diplomas should be picked up at Eastside High School on May 20, between 1:30 PM and 4:00 PM.

Inclement Weather:

We will notify you via Parent Square of any weather delays and a backup date if needed.

Handicap Accessibility:

  • Accessible parking and seating will be located on the visitors’ side and are available on a firstcome, first-served basis. The guest requiring accessible seating and one accompanying family member may sit together.

Parking and Shuttle Service Information:

  • Limited parking is available at the stadium on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Free Off-Site Parking with Shuttle Service to Sharp Stadium at the following locations:
    • Newton County Public Parking Deck (1166 Elm Street) o Legion Field (3173 Mill Street NE)
  • Shuttle Information:
    • Shuttles will begin operating at 6:15 PM.
    • Shuttles will transport guests from designated off-site parking locations to Sharp Stadium.
    • Following the ceremony, shuttles will be available to transport guests back to their designated off-site parking locations.
  • Additional Parking Options:
    • Former Sharp Learning Center Parking Area. (no shuttle service)
    • Board of Education building parking lots. (no shuttle service)
  • Early Arrival Recommended: Please arrive early to allow ample time for parking and to make way into the stadium.