Audience, students face increased VBC security for graduation

MADISON – Everyone attending graduation ceremonies for the Class of 2018 will face heightened security measures at Propst Arena in the Von Braun Center in Huntsville.

The VBC is implementing security changes that will affect graduation ceremonies for James Clemens and Bob Jones high schools. VBC workers are installing metal detectors, which will delay a person’s entrance into the building. The extra screening scrutiny will be imposed on both students and audience members, MCS Public Relations Manager John S. Peck said.

Anyone attending a VBC event is subject to visual inspection and bag search, metal detector screenings, pat-down search conducted by security personnel or any combination of these measures. “The VBC will increase typical staffing to get attendees into the building in a timely manner but can make no guarantees,” Peck said.

The VBC warns that “any dangerous instrument, noisemaking device (horns, sirens, whistles and similar items) and other banned items are subject to confiscation” if someone brings the items into the VBC.

Some of the other banned items are aerosol cans; backpacks; briefcases; bags or purses larger than 14 inches by 14 inches by six inches; bottles or cans; chains more than six feet in length; coolers; fireworks; ‘outside’ food; and ‘selfie’ sticks. For a complete list and other security procedures, visit vonbrauncenter.com/event-security-safety.

Graduation for both Madison high schools will be held May 21. The ceremony for James Clemens seniors is scheduled for 2 p.m., followed by the Bob Jones senior class at 6 p.m.

Doors at the VBC will open at 12:30 p.m. for James Clemens graduation. For Bob Jones’ ceremony, audience members can enter at 4:30 p.m. VBC officials recommend arriving one hour before graduation.

Detailed information about graduation and senior activities including picnic, baccalaureate time and location and other events is available on the school websites:

– Visit James Clemens website at jchs.madisoncity.k12.al.us and click “Senior Class – Departing Jets” in the “Counseling” list on the left of the page.

– Visit Bob Jones website at bjhs.madisoncity.k12.al.us and click “Senior Class” in the “Student Resources” list on the left of the page.