As the school year comes to a close, seniors at Lakeview High School are preparing to celebrate graduation, one of the most meaningful milestones of their lives. With a calendar full of memorable events planned ahead, the class of 2026 is making the most of their final weeks together while reflecting on the journey that brought them here.
Graduation is set for May 17th, a date that has quickly gone from feeling distant to right around the corner for many seniors. Already, students have received their caps and gowns, an exciting and emotional moment that signifies the closeness of the ceremony.
In the weeks leading up to graduation, seniors are participating in a variety of events designed to celebrate their accomplishments and strengthen their bonds. One of the most anticipated events is the senior trip to Kennywood amusement park on May 8th. The tradition of taking the senior class on a trip allows students to have fun and create lasting memories outside the classroom.
Senior Class President Isabella Isenberg reminisces and explains, “As I spend my last days of school with my fellow seniors, I’m very excited about all of the upcoming events we have to celebrate and spend time together before graduation! The senior trip to Kennywood and the Night at the Field are two events that I’m looking forward to a lot!! Getting to spend time and have fun with my classmates is something I’m eagerly anticipating! Also, getting our graduation caps and gowns was a special and surreal moment. As I go through all of my lasts with my classmates, I can’t help but feel sentimental that my time at Lakeview is starting to come to an end. Each day I’m reminded of the amazing memories and people in the school, and I’m certainly looking to make the most of my last few events with my fellow seniors.”
Another major day of celebration is May 15th, which is packed with multiple senior traditions. The day begins with the K-8 walkthrough clap-out, where seniors, dressed in their caps and gowns, walk through the halls as younger students and teachers cheer them on. This symbolic moment highlights how far the seniors have come and serves as an inspiration to younger students.
Later that day, seniors will attend graduation rehearsal to prepare for the ceremony, preceding the senior brunch, where classmates can gather, share memories, and celebrate their achievements. The day also includes a senior parade, a lively event where students decorate their cars and drive through the community, proudly displaying signs that represent their future plans and personalities.
Senior Maya Figueroa explains that, “as this school year is coming to an end, I have found myself cherishing every second of our ‘lasts’ as seniors. Receiving our caps and gowns made reality set in, but also sparked excitement. Now, with our senior trip to Kennywood, the awards ceremony and brunch, and of course prom, each of these upcoming events feels like a celebration of everything we have shared and accomplished.”
Senior Melena Zervas was even chosen to give a speech at the May 17th ceremony. Zervas states, “Being chosen to speak at graduation has made this moment feel even more real; what once felt far away is now right in front of us, and it’s a chance to reflect on everything that got us here! I’m so grateful for my time here at Lakeview and had the most special senior year.”
As May 17th approaches, the Lakeview High School senior class is balancing excitement for the future with appreciation for the past. Through shared experiences, meaningful traditions, and lasting friendships, these bulldogs are prepared to cross the stage.
