Commencement Ceremony Changes

We have some changes to announce concerning graduation ceremonies for the Barrow County School System for the 2025-26 school year.

The Class of 2026 for Barrow Arts and Sciences Academy and Apalachee High School will be the first BCSS classes to graduate in the Akins Ford Arena in Athens.

There are several reasons for the move to Akins Ford Arena for BASA and AHS.

• In-house Safety Measures:
  There are security measures (weapons detectors, screeners, and security staff) already in place and medical personnel on staff who are trained to respond in a large-crowd setting.
• Climate-controlled Atmosphere:
  We won’t have to worry about inclement weather changing the dates or dampening the day. This also helps ensure safety to prevent heat-related illnesses.
• Space:
  Due to our increasing class sizes, our school facilities are unable to safely accommodate the number of people who wish to attend the ceremony. There will be no need for tickets.
• Video Enhancements:
  We will be able to show your graduates on the jumbo screen as they receive their diplomas, as well as other video/presentation enhancements.
• Scheduling:
  Having the two graduations in one day saves costs and allows staff and families to start their summer plans even earlier.

The graduation times and dates for all high schools are:

• Barrow Arts & Sciences Academy – Wednesday, May 20, 2026 at 1 p.m.
• Apalachee High School – Wednesday, May 20, 2026 at 6 p.m.
• Winder-Barrow High School’s graduation will remain at their stadium for this next school year, but the start time will change from 8 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 21.

Specific details about each of the school ceremonies will be shared with students and families closer to the date.

In the meantime, please see our questions and answers below for more information about Akins Ford Arena. To add a question, please email communication@barrow.k12.ga.us.

Thank you,
Barrow County School System

Q&A about Akins Ford Arena Graduations:

Where is Akins Ford Arena located?
Akins Ford Arena is at 300 North Thomas Street in Athens, GA. It is part of The Classic Center campus.

How many seats does the arena have?
Akins Ford Arena can accommodate 5,000 spectators. In comparison, Apalachee High School’s stadium holds closer to 4,000 and the Innovation Amphitheater can hold close to 2,000.

Will we be given tickets?
No, tickets will not be given. Seating is first come, first choice.

Where will we park?
There is parking throughout downtown Athens. Some spots are free, while others will require you to pay. We will have more details about parking as we get closer to the event date.

We do ask that you please leave your parking space as soon as you can after the ceremony to allow for the next ceremony’s families to have a place to park.

Will I be able to take pictures on the floor with my graduate?
Due to two of our high schools’ ceremonies happening on the same day, photos on the floor with graduates will not be permitted. There is a plaza space outside of the arena where you can take photos.

Will there be water available?
Concessions will be available for purchase inside Akins Ford Arena.

Can I bring my own water bottle?
For security reasons, outside food and drink are not permitted.

Clear bags only?
For security screening reasons, only clear bags will be allowed in the arena. If you have a medical bag or diaper bag that you must bring in, it will be required to be screened. See Akins Ford Arena bag policies.

Are we allowed to bring balloons or signs inside the arena?
Noisemakers, balloons, liquid string, signs, or anything that may draw attention away from the graduates are not allowed in the arena. Anyone attempting to bring these items will be asked to return them to their vehicle or throw them away before entering.

Why Akins Ford Arena in Athens?
The space, services, and proximity to Barrow County that Akins Ford Arena offers meet the needs of our schools. Other neighboring school districts held their ceremonies there last year and were pleased with their experiences. The Akins Ford Arena staff are excited to welcome our families, students, and staff for wonderful events!