Prep School to hold parade May 20, graduation May 21 Published May 17, 2013 U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- The Air Force Academy Preparatory School will conduct its graduation parade on Black Memorial Field May 20 at 9 a.m., followed by graduation in the Arnold Hall Theater May 21 at 10 a.m. This year, 173 graduating cadet candidates were offered appointments to the Academy. The candidates have until this month to decide if they'll accept the Academy appointment. Each year, approximately 15 percent of those entering the Air Force Academy consist of Preparatory School graduates. The Preparatory School, established in 1961, supports students in attaining the Academy's academic, military and physical requirements. The school's program includes lessons in mathematics, English and sciences as well as military training. More than 200 cadet candidates enter the Preparatory School each summer, with approximately one-third of the students being prior enlisted.