Next Step Day-Reverse Parade At Tamarac High School
By Amy Modesti
Senior year for graduates is normally full of excitement and anticipation for the future, from attending prom, graduating on stage with friends, to being accepted at their college of choice, entering the workforce or serving in our country’s armed forces. One’s senior year is a milestone in the journey into adulthood.
With high school graduation ceremonies remaining uncertain due to the coronavirus, Class of 2020 advisors of Tamarac High School, Tim Jacques and Aimee Bishop wanted to celebrate their seniors by organizing the next step day-reverse parade. The next step day is an annual tradition held during the school year to celebrate the seniors accomplishments as well as their plans, hopes and dreams for tomorrow.
Practicing social distancing, graduating seniors decked out their cars with balloons, home-made signage, and college décor expressing their pride in their next educational institution.. Families, friends, faculty, and local fire departments drove through the Tamarac parking lot to express their gratitude and support, with some passing out flower bouquets, small pieces of candy, giant sunflowers, and spraying silly string into the air. The students were excited and thankful to see the amount of love and support that was felt at such an important time by their teachers, family and friends.
The Eagle Mills Fire, Speigletown and Raymertown Fire Departments were some of those who paraded through the lot with Raymertown displaying a large banner congratulating students Jake, Mackenzie, Skyler, Matt, Tim, Riley and Lucas on their achievements. Students who took part in the afternoon festivities have been accepted at some of the top area colleges and universities such as H.V.C.C., Russell Sage College, Penn State University, RPI, S.U.N.Y. Albany, S.U.N.Y. Delhi, Purchase State College, The College of St. Rose, Bryant and Stratton College and Cornell University amongst others.
Congratulations to the 2020 graduates of Tamarac High School!! Best of luck and well wishes to you in your future!!