As the school year begins to dwindle and the idea of flip flops and suntans linger on the minds of seniors, you will probably catch most of them feeling a tad sentimental. While taking a look back at the traditions that they have cherished, such as cheering on classmates at pep rallies to dressing up for spirit days, seniors can also reminisce on the traditions that they themselves have started.

Remember the freshmen/sophomore semi-formal? That was a brainchild of this year’s senior class when they were sophomores, as they searched for a way to raise money and have a good time as a class. The enhanced station method of selling tickets for major events such as prom and the senior dinner dance? Yet another idea from the class for 2013. And probably most notably, this year kicks off SHS’s new and improved senior week.

In the past, senior week has been known to be chaotic and problematic. In an effort to alleviate the stress of what should be an overall relaxing week, the senior class created new and innovative ideas to help improve the last week of high school.

This year’s senior traditions include some of the favorites from past years, such as the senior trip to the Improv Asylum and the senior class barbecue. But in addition to these tried and true traditions, the class of 2013 suggested the idea of giving back to the Scituate community. SHS seniors will spend the morning before the barbecue reading at their elementary schools, walking down the hallways of their childhoods during one of their last days as Scituate students.

“We are excited about the level of commitment and maturity we have seen from the class of 2013 over the past 4 years,” said Ms. Grindle. “Opportunities for the class to visit with the elementary schools, take a class trip and take part in a BBQ are all opportunities that have been extended to the class. Officers, representatives, advisors and administration have been meeting since the fall to plan these events and we are excited to see these opportunities embraced by the graduating class as a testament to their 13 years of education in the Scituate Public Schools.”

Even the teachers have jumped onboard. “The new senior week is really an exciting change,” said Ms. Arena, the advisor of the senior class government. “Students seem to be most excited about going back to their elementary school and reconnecting with old teachers. I don’t think it hurts that it also is two entire days of no classes!”

Additionally, the Class of 2013 has added in a motorcade to senior activities, a creative twist on the Class of 2012’s bike ride around the school. Seniors will meet at central field to decorate their cars and then drive to SHS together for the last time.

“I think the more gatherings student government organizes really unify the entire grade. And the senior week is kind of like the icing on the cake where we can celebrate our time spent together,” said Jody Walls, senior and the Class of 2013 President. In addition to all of these new additions to senior week, all activities will be free of charge, which has never been the case in past years. From reading at elementary alma maters to underclassmen semi-formals, the class of 2013 has definitely left its mark on the halls of SHS. Best of luck next year in all of their future endeavors!