Maquoketa Schools Move Graduation Date for 2026

Maquoketa Schools had approved the School Calendar which moved Graduation from Sunday to Friday in 2026. According to Maquoketa Schools Superintendent Tara Notz this change comes due to recent changes that shifted the school start date later. Graduation had typically fallen during Memorial Day weekend. According to Iowa Administrative code school districts may excuse graduating seniors up to 5 days or 30 hours of instruction time after meeting graduation requirements. While Memorial Day weekend graduations have benefits, there are also notable challenges. Many staff members and students who participate in graduation-related performances often have conflicts due to holiday weekend commitments. Staff of Maquoketa Schools have expressed the difficulty of attending graduation ceremonies scheduled during this weekend. Therefore, the school district  is experimenting with a Friday evening ceremony to improve attendance among staff and students. Additionally, considering limited weekends available and families with multiple graduations in neighboring districts, a Friday event allows greater flexibility for community attendance. 2026 will mark the first time that graduation will be on a Friday.