The Wheatley High School Class of 2023 started their final school year, in the East Williston School District, adding to their memories that will last a lifetime.

Following a senior class tradition started by the Class of 2017, on the first day of school which was Aug. 31, the senior class gathered on school grounds for a senior sunrise celebration. Together as a class, they watched the sunrise and officially began their senior year.

The event was a way to rekindle friendships, commemorate their last first day of school and to set their personal goals for their senior year. As the seniors enjoyed breakfast provided by the PTO, the senior class advisers distributed T-shirts and a group class photo was taken to capture the beauty of the sunrise and the start of their senior year together.

To add to the tradition, each member of the senior class completed their Senior Year Goals card which included their individual hopes and goals for their final year of high school. The cards were collected and will be saved until the last day of school. At that time, the senior class will gather once again for a senior sunset celebration where their Senior Year Goals cards will be returned to them along with the final yearbooks.

The district takes great pride in the achievements of all students, especially the Class of 2023. The senior sunrise celebration is just one of the traditions of The Wheatley School to pay tribute to the graduating class. Throughout the year, there will be numerous events planned to create more memorable moments and recognize and celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2023.