Important Graduation Information for the Class of 2026

Dear 8th grade parents,

It’s hard to believe that the Class of 2026 is starting their 8th grade year! This class is poised to be leaders of the school and we are honored to walk this journey alongside each and every member of this extraordinary class as well as with you, the parents! There is much to look forward to during their last year at Harding Academy and we want to celebrate their time here in a multitude of ways. As we know many people need to plan in advance, here are a few guidelines and requests as we move into the 2025-2026 school year.

10/21/25: High School Fair at Harding Academy

11/15/25: ISEE Testing at Harding Academy

3/24/26: 8th Grade Brick Reveal 

4/25/26: Six Flags Over Georgia

5/4/26-5/7/26: 8th Grade Trip to Washington D.C.

5/5/26: Parent Viewing of Class of 2026 Video

5/8/26: No Classes for 8th Grade Students

5/15/26: 8th Grade Shaving Cream Fight

5/21/26: Kindergarten and 8th Grade Buddy Rose Ceremony

5/21/26: Student Viewing of the Class of 2026 Video

5/22/26: 8th Grade Graduation followed by a reception for graduates and guests

Throughout the year, we’ll celebrate the Class of 2026 through their leadership and special activities. Graduation season officially begins with the Brick Reveal (Tuesday after Spring Break), followed by Harding traditions like the Rose Ceremony, shaving cream battle, video viewing party, and more.

In addition to these school-sponsored events, parents have historically organized their own celebrations outside of Harding—such as an end-of-year pool party or bowling outing and a graduation party the evening following Graduation. While these are not school events, we’re happy to help parents connect.

If you’d like to be included on the list of parents interested in planning or participating in these outside celebrations, please fill out this form. We’ll share the compiled contact list so you can connect directly.

Traditionally, the students are asked to wear navy blazers, beige khaki slacks (no cargo), white shirts, ties and nice leather shoes (not athletic-type shoes), or white dresses for graduation. The dresses should be white or off-white, floor length, and some form of shoulder strap is preferred to keep from adjusting throughout the ceremony. Some dresses may require a slip underneath depending upon the fabric. We also ask that all the students wear dress shoes.  When choosing shoes, please remember that the floor and carpet can be cumbersome with certain types of high heels. If you have a question about attire, contact the middle school office at msoffice@hardingacademy.us.

The Class of 2026 Video is one of Harding’s most beloved traditions—a photographic timeline celebrating the friendships and growth our students have shared since Kindergarten. It’s always a highlight of graduation season, with special viewing parties for parents and students. After the premiere, we’ll also share a link so each family has their own copy. If any parents are interested in helping with this special project, we’d love and welcome your support!

To make this video possible, we need your help! Please submit 10-15 photos of your child by January 21.

How to Submit

Email your photos to Ruthie Lowney at lowneyr@hardingacademy.us by January 21.

Thank you for helping us create a video that will give the Class of 2026 a truly magical moment—seeing their growth and progression at Harding come to life.

We will be sending out reminders and additional information as decisions are made and appreciate your patience. In the meantime, should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to me directly.

Sincerely,

Jay Codispoti