As the first light of the new school year rises, so did the class of 2026. On August 28 at 6:15, AM is when everyone met up. The exact meaning of the Senior Sunrise is to “symbolize the beginning of their final year, offering a chance to bond with classmates, reflect on their journey, and create memorable experiences as they embark on new adventures.”
Maddie Handwerk, a senior at HAHS, attended and shared, “I hope this brings us together as a class and helps everyone reflect on our years together.” She brought a pink blanket and some Dunkin’. She thinks Senior Sunrise is important because it is a great way to kick off senior year, and she took lots of pictures with friends and cherished the small, bittersweet moments.
Azaria Enoch said she feels overwhelmed knowing it is her last year of high school, with college applications and portfolio work ahead. She thinks Senior Sunrise was emotional, a reminder that she is growing up, and plans to watch it with friends. She enjoys the freedom senior year brings, though she remembers freshman year as her favorite, when she was a confused little kid learning and assuming things.
“As the sun begins to rise, students will gather together.” As the last words fade, the sky begins to brighten. Taking pictures of the sky that will slowly shift from dark blue to light-oranges and pinks. As this marks the start of the final for these seniors, they remember the growth they have made. For them, it is a final reminder that they can move on from challenges. They shared these experiences as a class, creating memories as a class.