It is of course monumental to the HS Senior, the last June of his Secondary education. But is it more so to their parents? In this culture to advance to adulthood really starts when one leaves High School, whether by graduation or quitting. 
My three brothers all left early, each for their own reason. It is without doubt their adult lives began at that moment, They needed to find work or go into the military. One even started his family upon leaving. I stuck it out and finished before going into the military. I know I, and am pretty sure my brothers, didn’t think for a moment how our leaving school mattered at all to our parents. They were done parenting us. Very done.
That was 43 years ago. Things have changed. Though we’ll be attending a graduation in two weeks, or so, I don’t feel there will be that abrupt disengagement. No “Thanks for all the fish” song. But still, there will be the change.
Neil Gaiman’s recent speech was to a college audience. I think this recording of it should be mandatory viewing for all High School graduates as well.
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