Niles West will no longer host graduation at school. Instead, decided at the October Board meeting, it will now take place at the Rosemont Theater in Rosemont, IL.

Hosting graduation on campus requires both outdoor and indoor setups in the event of rain. This work takes place during finals week and puts additional pressure on the operations staff during this hectic time. Previously, graduates were able to have a maximum of five tickets, and in the case of an indoor graduation, only three. The switch to the Rosemont Theater will allow students to have six tickets. If necessary, the district may be able to provide a shuttle service if transportation is an issue.

Last year, the district spent $33,100 on renting stages and sound equipment. Staff overtime costs totaled $5,520. Holding the graduation at Rosemont Theater will cost $44,000 dollars along with a nonrefundable deposit of $5000.

Many seniors were surprised but approve of the change.

“I think it’s a good idea as long as it makes it easier for the staff, as well as students who are bringing more people to graduation. If that’s what their ultimate goal is, it’s a good idea,” senior Christopher Kim said.

Some students were a little upset about it not being outside, as the weather in May is nice.

“There’s only a low chance it’ll rain,” senior Simone Perrin said. “But the Rosemont Theater is really nice and it’s really big. Graduation is going to be nice there for sure, but I really wish it was outside. Also, it might be hard for some families to get there, and Niles West is a more convenient location for an event this large.”

There were also students that were indifferent about the situation.

“I like this [change] but I didn’t really care either way,” senior Irin Choi said. “It’ll be a good time no matter where it is.”