By Kristian Fearon ’25
As the Derby Class of 2025 prepares to say goodbye to high school, the seniors are soaking in every last moment. Senior year is filled with unforgettable memories that bring the class to together one last time, from events like prom, senior skip day, and the senior trip. I spoke to members of the class and asked about these final celebrations, what they’re looking forward to and their overall high school experience.
What senior events are you most excited about?
First, Seniors were asked what events they were most excited about? For the majority, senior skip day was on the top of the list. These seniors expressed that they were excited for the free day. “I’m most excited about senior skip day and graduation. I’m excited for senior skip day because I am really excited to go to the beach with my friends,” stated Jaylynn Donaldson ‘25. She also stated that she was excited for prom because she was ready to see everyone dressed up. Another student expressed their excitement for prom, “I’m excited for prom because everybody’s going to get together, all my friends are going to get together and we’re gonna look nice.” says Xariyah Mitchell ‘25
Students were also asked what senior traditions they were most looking forward to. Among all the senior traditions the senior prank and skip day were the ones that sparked the most excitement. “Definitely, senior skip day and the senior prank,” says Julissa Flores ‘25. “I’m excited for the senior prank, I hope the class trashes the school well. I’m excited to prank the school and I hope everybody is shocked.” Jaylynn Donaldson ‘25
How do you feel knowing it’s your last year of high school?
Surprisingly, many students explained that they had mixed emotions. Though they are excited for the future, they also share a sense of nostalgia and even sadness. “I felt really good at first, but you know getting closer to the end of the year, it’s kinda sad. I’m not going to see a lot of people who I’ve been talking to for years, like my elementary friends, and people I’ve known, I may never see them again. So it’s kinda sad,” said Jaylen Titus ‘25
Has your perspective on high school changed this year and what will you miss the most?
Several seniors said that this last year certainly did change their perspective. This year has helped them appreciate their high school experience more than their previous years experience. “It has, its like kinda corny but like you really do have to like savor everything because the year comes and your like damn.’’ Another senior also expressed, “I think that my perspective has changed a little bit, because before I hated high school and thought it was hell but as I kept going it’s not that bad and its brought good memories to my life, so,” said Xariyah Mitchell ‘25.
What advice would you give to the class of 2026?
“Keep your grades up.” – Jaylynn Donaldson ‘25
“Join sports, talk to people, get your grades up and maintain them because its going to be hard trying to maintain them while trying to also do senior stuff, and get your money up because senior year is expensive.’’ – Xariyah Mitchell ‘25
“Please, please make sure that your grades are good, so you don’t have to take any final exams. Make sure that you’re getting all your credits. And just make sure you have fun.’’ – Julissa Flores ‘25
The Raider Press 