Save the Date for 2027!

Friday, May 14, 2027
3:30PM–5:30PM
Hope Bible Church
9112 Guilford Road
Columbia, MD 21046

Registration information for the 2027 graduation will be announced late Fall 2026.

Want to be notified when registration opens? Complete the interest form below to receive graduation updates.

Questions? Email the MACHE Graduation Coordinator at graduation@machemd.org.

Click Here to Fill Out the Interest Form

MACHE Homeschool Graduation Interest Form

Parent/Guardian Name(Required)

Please enter the name of the parent or guardian completing this form.

First Last

Email(Required)

Enter the email address where you would like to receive MACHE graduation updates.

Phone

Please provide the best phone number to reach you if needed.

Maryland County?(Required)

Select the Maryland county where your family currently resides. If you live outside of Maryland, select “Out of State.”

State of Residence(Required)

Please enter the state where your family currently resides.

How Many Graduates Are You Interested in Registering?(Required)

Let us know how many graduates in your family may participate in an upcoming MACHE Homeschool Graduation Ceremony.

Are You Currently a MACHE Member?(Required)

Yes

Have a Question for Our Graduation Coordinator?

Use the space below to share any questions you have while you wait for additional graduation details.

This is an interest form only and does not register your graduate for a MACHE Homeschool Graduation Ceremony.

Class of 2026 Commencement Speaker

Dr. Roger Smith

Dr. Roger Smith of Gilbert, Louisiana, began his family while attending Louisiana Tech University before completing medical school and four years of training in Kentucky. He later returned to Louisiana, where he established his Internal Medicine practice, which he continues today. From the beginning of their family life, Dr. Smith and his wife chose to homeschool their four children through high school. He credits homeschooling with strengthening their family and relationships, calling his adult children his greatest accomplishment.

For more than 25 years, Dr. Smith has spoken and mentored others on marriage, family, homeschooling, and leadership. He has served in leadership roles with organizations such as 4-H, Boy Scouts, Homeschool Speech and Debate, Homeschool Louisiana, and the Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Smith also serves on the board of his state homeschool organization and the National Alliance of Christian Home Education Leaders, and hosts a weekly parenting video blog, Parenting Matters Now.

VISIT ROGERSMITHMD.COM

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the MACHE Maryland graduation ceremony below.

What happens during the graduation ceremony?

The ceremony follows a meaningful program that includes a welcome, a formal processional to Pomp and Circumstance, the National Anthem, and an invocation. The keynote speaker is introduced, followed by the commencement address and a special video presentation featuring all graduates. Parents are recognized, and then each graduate’s diploma is presented on stage by their parent or guardian. Families also receive a printed program with every senior’s name, and depending on the venue, the celebration may conclude with a reception where families can take photos and enjoy time together.

Who is eligible to participate in the graduation ceremony?

The MACHE graduation ceremony is open to all privately homeschooled high school students in Maryland. We recognize that parents have the primary responsibility and authority to determine when their student has completed their high school education, and we honor that decision. Our role is simply to provide a meaningful ceremony to celebrate this accomplishment—not to certify, approve, or endorse any school or student. If your student is ready to graduate this year, we would be delighted to celebrate with your family.

Do I need to be a MACHE member to register?

No, you do not need to be a MACHE member to register for the graduation ceremony. However, MACHE members receive a discounted registration rate. Families are welcome to join MACHE at any time if they’d like to take advantage of the member discount.

When is the registration deadline, and what happens if I miss it?

All graduates must register by the posted deadline in order to participate in the ceremony. This ensures we have enough time to prepare programs, materials, and personalized elements for each student. Registrations cannot be accepted after the deadline, so we encourage families to sign up early to secure their spot.

What is included in my registration fee?

Your registration fee covers all essential elements of the graduation experience, including the venue, a meaningful ceremony and celebration, a commencement speaker, and a diploma for parents or guardians to present. It also includes a video montage featuring all graduates and five complimentary tickets for family or guests (with additional tickets available for purchase as space allows). If a reception is offered for that year’s ceremony, the graduate may attend for free, while guests may attend for an additional fee.

Where will the graduation ceremony be held?

The location is currently being finalized. Please check back for updates.

What is the graduation rehearsal, and is it required?

The graduation rehearsal is a practice session held before the ceremony to help students and families understand the order of events and ensure the day runs smoothly. Attendance is mandatory for all graduates, and at least one parent or guardian should also attend. This gives everyone a chance to ask questions, practice walking the stage, and feel confident for the big day.

Is there a dress code for the graduation ceremony?

Yes, graduates should dress in semi-formal or dressy attire that is comfortable under their cap and gown. While gowns cover most of the outfit, we recommend wearing shoes that are easy to walk in during the ceremony. Families and guests are encouraged to dress nicely to celebrate this special occasion, and we recommend that parents or guardians presenting diplomas dress appropriately, as they will be photographed on stage with their graduate.

Do I need to provide a cap and gown?

Graduates are responsible for providing their own cap and gown for the ceremony. The required attire is a white cap and gown with a gold tassel. We strongly recommend purchasing these items ahead of time to ensure they arrive in plenty of time for graduation day. HSLDA provides cap and gowns sets that can be purchased on their store by clicking here: HSLDA Store.

Who presents the diploma during the ceremony?

In keeping with the parent-led nature of homeschooling, the diploma is presented on stage by the student’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s). This moment is designed to honor the central role families play in their student’s education. Because of this focus, diplomas may only be presented by parents or guardians—not by teachers, coaches, or other mentors. We appreciate everyone’s understanding as we preserve the heart and purpose of this ceremony.

How do I submit my student’s biography and photos for the ceremony?

After registering, you’ll receive a link to submit your student’s biography and photos. These will be featured on our website, in the graduation program, and in the video montage shown during the ceremony. Detailed instructions about length, format, and other requirements will be provided with the link.

Can graduates wear honor cords or other regalia during the ceremony?

Yes! Graduates are welcome to wear their own honor cords, stoles, or other regalia to recognize achievements. While MACHE does not officially bestow these honors or recognize them verbally during the ceremony, you may include this information on your graduate’s page in the printed program to celebrate their accomplishments.

Can I bring guests to the ceremony?

Yes, graduates can bring guests. Information on guest limits will be provided with registration details.