As the school year winds down, the Class of 2026 is approaching the finish line. During the senior meeting on Feb. 24, administrators outlined the activities planned for the final months of high school for seniors.
English teacher and Senior Class Adviser Emily Epps says staying on top of these dates is important.
“Seniors need to check their email weekly. Mrs. French and I send several emails between now and the end of the school year with important information, Epps said.
From prom to the last walk across the stage, here’s what to expect.
Caps and Gowns
Cap and gowns will be available for pickup in late April or early May, with updates sent as soon as they arrive. Any seniors that still need to order a cap and gown should go to the Jostens website, and if there are any issues, check in with Mrs. Haar in the main office.
Prom season officially began Tuesday, April 7, when prom tickets went on sale.
”If seniors are planning on attending prom, it is essential to purchase a ticket by April 17 at midnight,” Epps said.
Emails were sent to parents and guardians with instructions on how to purchase the tickets on the same day sales began.
Tickets will be available for pickup on Tuesday, April 28 during Wildcat and Wednesday, April 29, after the third period in the main lobby.
Prom Details
Prom is set to take place on Saturday, May 2, from 5-9 p.m. at Wisehaven Event Center.
According to Senior Class President Tysiar Bordonada, this year’s dance will be a bit less expensive than in the past for several reasons.
“We’ve been fundraising for the last four years in some creative ways like the in school sports tournaments. People don’t always go to traditional fundraisers like restaurant nights. Students want to have fun and get together with their friends. They don’t mind putting their money into experiences that comes back to the class. They look forward to those types of things and they have helped us to raise more than classes in the past,” Bordonada said.
Student feedback led the class officers to change the meal and formal seating to appetizers and open seating. In addition, another photo booth will be added.
These changes have allowed tickets prices to be more affordable for the Class of 2026.
Class Trip and Award Ceremonies
For any students seeking a thrill, an optional class trip to Hersheypark is planned for Friday, May 15. Tickets for this yearly tradition were sold March 23-27.
The end of the year also includes several awards ceremonies.
The Dallastown Area Education Foundation Scholarship Program will take place on Wednesday, May 20, at 7 p.m. in the high school auditorium. Selected students for scholarships will be notified via email, however, all seniors are invited to attend to cheer on their peers.
The Senior Awards Program follows on Tuesday, May 26, at 7 p.m. in the auditorium. Award recipients will be notified prior to the event, but all are welcome to attend.
Senior Traditions
Those looking to unwind with friends can attend Senior Sunset on Thursday, May 21, at 7 p.m. on the soccer field. Food and drinks will be provided, but students are encouraged to bring blankets, chairs, and lawn games.
“I’m looking forward to spending time with my friends one last time at senior sunset,” senior Izzy Baum said.
A more recent Dallastown tradition is allowing seniors to revisit their elementary schools.
Those interested can participate in the graduation walk on Tuesday, May 26. Students must scan the QR code and complete the Google form to attend.
Final Days
The community baccalaureate will also be held on Tuesday, May 26, starting at 6 p.m. in the high school auditorium.
Baccalaureate is a student-planned, non-denominational service held near graduation to reflect and honor the graduates with speakers and music. It is a non-mandatory graduation event.
Thursday, May 28 marks the last day of classes for seniors. Mandatory graduation practices will be held during the mornings of Wednesday, May 27, and Thursday, May 28.
A senior celebration is planned for Wednesday, May 27, from 11 to 3 p.m. More details are expected soon.
Commencement will take place Thursday, May 28, at 6:30 p.m. at American Legion Field at Wildcat Stadium. The ceremony will move to Friday, May 29 if weather interferes. Gates will open at 4:30 p.m., and no tickets are required so seats are first come first serve.
For any families hoping to capture the moment, the American Legion Field will be open Friday, May 29, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. for photos in front of the scoreboard. Each senior will also receive two free 5×7 copies of the group photo in their graduation packet.
As we approach the finish line, many students are beginning to reflect on what they are leaving behind this year.
“I’m really going to miss my friends and talking to everyone,” senior Maddie Bunnell said.
