The Parmentier
A Bittersweet Departure; Seniors to Leave VoidThursday, May 31, 2012 By Mandisa Shields, Features Editor
The Class of 2012 came to St. Joseph High School as young, quivering freshmen in 2008. They were probably wondering what they would accomplish and who they would become throughout high school. Today, they lead us as the senior class of SJHS and soon, they will be passing the baton to the Class of 2013. Those of you who don’t know them well will probably just be happy to move up the high school food chain; but for the rest of us, this will be a sad —maybe even bittersweet—occasion. “I’m really gonna miss them,” says junior Kaysie Hernandez. “I had so much fun with some of the seniors in Drama Club.” Of all the things we appreciate about the Class of 2012, I think it’s safe to say that we all respect their role as leaders of SJHS. As seen on their Senior/Freshman Breakfast, in the hallways or in any integrated classroom, most seniors take their role as leaders very seriously and they do an extremely good job at it. Freshman Maria Cruz still fondly remembers Senior/Freshman Breakfast, “My senior sister was Tyler Perez; I felt really welcome because she asked me what I liked about the school and answered all of my questions,” Maria and Tyler’s relationship has lasted beyond the breakfast. A phrase that describes most of the senior class is down to earth. Although most of us, when appointed with a top tier position, would let it go to our heads, many of the seniors remained humble; they remembered how it felt to be a junior, sophomore or freshman. Those of the seniors who had integrated classes didn’t separate themselves from the group just because they were older; they often took the opportunity to befriend underclassmen. “The classes I had with seniors were so much fun!” said Azure Garrett. “They don’t act like they’re better than us just because they’re older.” Along with teachers and faculty, the seniors play a prominent role as the core of SJHS. Actions such as soothing the unease that followed our school fire earlier this year have exemplified their strength and maturity. Seeing these things, we can all be assured that the Class of 2012 is ready to move on, even if we aren’t ready to let them go. If you won’t be at their graduation, be sure to stop your favorite senior in the hallway and express your gratitude; if the words just won’t come, tell them that you’ll miss them. To the seniors: I think I can speak for all of SJHS when I say hats (or graduation caps) off to the Class of 2012. |