Although they had their official graduation on June 2, Old Rochester Regional’s senior class said goodbye to their fellow classmates on June 1 during their Senior Assembly.
The assembly began after all the students filed into the gymnasium, starting with the flag bearers. Typically, there would be just the American flag, but five flags were presented to honor our foreign exchange students this year as they graduate. Flags for Italy, Norway, Germany, and Mexico were flown as well. The graduates then made their way to their seats in their vibrant red robes.
Madison Martin read off the class history, and there were so many memories. From their very first time in the halls to being able to pick their own classes for the first time, from junior semi-formal to the unveiling of the new Bulldog mascot, then the Ned’s Point trip, and the prom. Martin called theirs “the best senior year ‘eva!’” As she left the podium, Martin happily said, “Congratulations, we have crossed the finish line.”
There were many performances, including seniors Chris Savino and Lindsey Merolla performing “Maybe This Time” with Merolla on piano and Savino on vocals, and Julia Melloni and Lauren Gonsalves singing “Put Your Records On” with Gonsalves on vocals and Melloni on both vocals and guitar. Alisha Mackin then performed a traditional Irish step dance, which involved serious footwork and quite a few high kicks. Directed by teacher Michael Barnicle, the entire chorus then sang what has become the group favorite, “Shosholoza,” for the very last time with the seniors. Grace Stevens and Alyssa Perry proceeded to perform “My Way” with Perry on piano and Stevens on vocals. Nick Claudio gave a stellar performance of “Piano Man” on both vocals and piano.
Erin Stoeckle and Katelyn Feeney then approached the podium in order to talk about the AFS (American Field Service) Club and the school’s foreign exchange students. The girls presented a video compilation of their time at ORR, ending with each student thanking everyone for the time and experiences they were given and saying how grateful and happy they were for the chance to come to ORR. The girls then gave the club advisor, Kim Corazzini, a gift from everyone in the club.
Katherine Gillis, junior class president, wished the seniors farewell, promised that the junior class would live up to the standard set by their class, and wished them luck in their future endeavors.
The seniors then revealed what their gift to the school would be, and it is both practical and stylish – five metal picnic tables decorated in the school colors. The picnic tables will last a long time, allowing future seniors to continue enjoying the school courtyard to its full potential.
“We’re a pretty unique school. I’m going to miss it,” said Melloni.
A video then began to play through various events from the year, such as the Ned’s Point trip, skit rehearsal for the Pep Rally, and random senior silliness. The video concluded with the students’ Who Am I projects, explaining their favorite parts of the year, what they are going to miss (mainly the teachers), advice for incoming seniors, and final words to their fellow students.
“It’s been a great four years,” said Katie Maclean. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
With that, Senior Assembly ended and the senior class of 2018 left the gym to the shouted farewells of their former classmates, ready to formally graduate from Old Rochester Regional High School the next day.
ORR Update
By Grace Mastroianni