As the class of 2023 gets ready for graduation, they have a few upcoming events in place to celebrate the final days of high school. 

One of the senior class representatives, Maggie Matessa, is ambitious to start her future at Ohio University, she’s also pumped for her final days here at JA. 

“I’m excited for the senior Cedar Point trip, because I’ve never been before but I’m mostly excited for graduation because I’m ready to move into the next phase of my life and graduation will really seal the deal,” she says.

As seniors start to appreciate these upcoming events, it’s important to remember who’s responsible for creating these events on hand. 

Mr. Carpenter has spent at least the last 10 years being senior class advisor and says he’s glad to be able to help the senior class with consistent activities. “I enjoy being senior class advisor, alongside Doc,” he says, “because I like to help make decisions and celebrate with the seniors I also teach in class.” 

The first date to remember is May 11th, the senior parade. As in previous years, the seniors will go down mainstreet to celebrate a part of graduating. What’s different about this year is that the event is organized by parents instead of the school. 

Following the parade, the next date to keep in mind is the senior cookout on Friday, May 12th. Seniors will be called down during 5a to a senior class meeting to discuss graduation and then remain at the cookout for the remaining two lunch periods. During this time, caps and gowns will also be distributed. 

The last day of class for seniors is on May 16th, followed by senior exams on May 17th and 18th. If students do not have at least an 85% in a class, they will have to take exams. 

The next event seniors should remember is May 19th, the senior trip. Hosted by Dr. Lorson and Mr. Carpenter continuing the tradition, the seniors will travel to Cedar Point. 

According to Mr. Carpenter, the seniors can divide and decide amongst themselves what bus out of the three they will choose to ride on, both to and from the park. Students cannot change what bus they ride. Buses will leave at exactly 7am, no later, so seniors must be situated by 6:50 on the bus and in their seats. Students should remember to bring either a debit or credit card, as the park is accepting less cash. Seniors will arrive back at the highschool around 10:30 pm. 

May 19th will also be the day grades will be finalized.

After the Cedar Point trip the next date to remember is senior award night, which will be held on Monday, May 22. Awards will start in the high school auditera at 7 pm and last until it’s over. As this is a formal occasion, seniors are asked to dress appropriately. 

Getting even closer to freedom, graduation practice will be held on Thursday, May 25th. Practice will start at 9:45 am and usually last around two hours if everyone can cooperate. If seniors do not show up for practice, they will not walk for graduation. 

Finally, the last date and most important is May 28th, graduation. Seniors should arrive no later than 1:30 pm. Graduation itself will start at 2 pm exactly. Don’t be late. 

Congrats seniors!