CHARLOTTE, N.C.--It's that time of year again for high school graduates to cross the stage and receive their diplomas. While many families say it's hard to contain their excitement CMS officials are cracking down on the amount of pomp and circumstance at the ceremonies.

Excitement filled the air Saturday as Hough High School graduates geared up for a day they've been waiting for, for months.

The ceremony was one of 23 across the Charlotte Mecklenburg School System over the next few days, but the big moment comes with some serious rules.

While most of the guidelines are enforced, there is one rule that always seems to be broken.

No balloons, flowers and noise makers were allowed.

CMS officials say they understand the excitement surrounding the much anticipated event, but they say the guidelines are in place for good reason.

"The thing that we want everybody to remember is there is a name coming after your graduate's name. So we just ask for a dignified respectful appreciation for their graduate and we just want the ceremony to be enjoyable for everybody," said CMS Director of Athletics, Sue Doran.