District 207 schools shift graduations to Rosemont Theatre

Maine Township high school graduates will walk across a new stage this spring at commencement.

Maine West in Des Plaines, and Maine East and Maine South in Park Ridge will hand diplomas to graduates at the Rosemont Theatre to avert weather problems.

The schools had held their ceremonies on the football field or in the gym.

Maine South's graduation will be on June 1, Maine West's on June 2 and Maine East's on June 3 at the theater, 5400 N. River Road.

Maine South Principal David L. Claypool said two graduations over the past five years were plagued by rain and extremely windy conditions.

Heat also made past graduations uncomfortable for students and their families, while parking has been an annual issue, he said.

Maine West Principal Audrey J. Haugan said the new arrangement will offer more space for more family and friends to attend.

"We looked into several places and found Rosemont very appealing. Air conditioning, close by, 4,300 seats, and we have students from Rosemont who attend Maine West," Haugan said.

Also, Maine West's football stands are being torn down and replaced when the weather is warmer.

It's definitely a switch in tradition, but school officials are confident it's the right way to go.

Haugan said the response has been mostly positive with the exception of having it on a Monday night, which for some is not as convenient as Sunday afternoon.

"However, many like it because it frees up the entire weekend after prom and we can host a breakfast on that Sunday prior to taking pictures at Maine West and celebrating the end of the school year," she said.

Claypool also is looking forward to the inaugural event.

"The comfort, location and size of the theater coupled with its remarkable aesthetic appeal, will make for a memorable ceremony," Claypool said.