Recently, our seniors were given the opportunity to participate in a wholesome school tradition: Senior Sunrise. The event, aimed at celebrating their time at SMHS and encouraging making closer connections, invited 12th graders to the football field on Friday, September 5, to view the dawn of their last year at the high school. The event started at 6:15, giving students ample time to set up to watch the sunrise at 6:30. An observer of the event could discern students clustered around on their picnic blankets taking photos, tossing around a tennis ball, or simply talking to each other. Orange juice and donuts were also provided by the school, which the seniors could enjoy as they contemplated their high school career and envisioned the last two semesters that lie ahead of them. “I am super excited to be a senior because I finally get to be the role model that I have admired since freshman year. I think that this event enhanced my experience as a senior since it enabled me to strengthen my friendships with my classmates, hopefully creating bonds which will last past graduation,” Paige Teng, 12, said. While the sunrise fell short of many’s expectations, as it was hidden behind a multitude of clouds, many participants still felt satisfied with the experience. “I’m anticipating a pretty stressful first semester, since I need to finish my college apps and keep my grades as high as possible; that being said, I feel that this event was a great way for my class to bond without focusing on the pressures of college applications,” Mason Pucan, 12, said. His opinions were reflected by many others, who agreed upon a feeling of excitement on being 12th graders. Senior sunrise was just the start of a great upcoming school year for the class of 26.
