Class of 2026 celebrates senior year with Senior Sunrise

By Natalee O. & Madilyn B.

Airport student council helped Airport High School throw a celebration with a Senior Sunrise at 6:30 AM Wednesday, August 27, on the football field, where hot chocolate and donuts were provided. Overall, the class of (‘26) was thrilled for this huge event.

The seniors gathered early in the morning for their very first--and hopefully only--Senior Sunrise, a special tradition marking the beginning of their final year together. Organized by the Student Council, the event brought classmates together on the football field as the sun rose. Students bundled in vintage blankets, and captured photos with friends, soaking in the excitement of a year full of memories ahead. What made the experience even more meaningful was the sense of unity it created seniors who had grown up together, along with new faces, all paused to celebrate the start of their last year.

In addition to  donuts and hot chocolate, there were also fun props for photos, giving seniors a chance to capture memories with their friends as they celebrated the start of their final year. These props contributed to the fun and camaraderie shared by the seniors.  As the sun began to rise, the seniors gathered together on the football field, sharing laughter, smiles, and excitement for what’s ahead. The morning ended with the group taking their “last first picture” of senior year, a moment filled with pride and nostalgia for everything the year will bring. 

The morning air still carried a breeze as students trickled in after the sun had already begun to stretch over the horizon. Some arrived late, rushing across the damp grass with blankets. From nearby speakers, music softly played in the background, setting a relaxed tone that mixed with the chatter of friends regrouping. On the football field, the freshly painted field designs were touched up, brushes that swiped over faded spots to keep the bright blue and white colors against the green turf, ensuring the tradition looked as vibrant as the students who had gathered to begin their final year together upon arrival. 

Ashley G., a  senior, stated, “Senior sunrise symbolized to me a lot of things. The biggest thing it symbolized to me is friendship”.

Sophie H, another senior also in attendance at the Senior Sunrise, said, , “I enjoyed the Senior Sunrise, it was a very close bonding moment with all my friends that I've known for years.” Sophie also proudly admits, “I was most excited for the donuts and hot chocolate, it was my favorite part of the whole event!”

Donuts and hot chocolate are a beloved and iconic breakfast option for many Senior Sunrises. According to advice from a blog geared towards senior activities,  offering students a warm and comforting way to start the day while celebrating this special tradition. The simple pairing of sweet treats and a cozy drink creates a sense of community and joy, making the event even more memorable.

 The student government is planning to continue contributing to similar events throughout the year, such as prom. By doing so, they hope to strengthen school spirit, bring classmates together, and create lasting memories . 

In some schools there are often traditions for seniors in high school because of their last year of high school like” senior skip day “ or “senior sunset” .During senior year students tend to  prepare more  for ACTs and SATs . Not only are they preparing for life after high school but also balancing out school work , jobs and after school activities  . 

Senior Sunrise isn’t just about watching the sun come up;  it’s about standing together at the dawn of our last firsts, knowing this year is the beginning of the memories that will light the rest of our lives.