A New Tradition: 2018 Grad Walk

The class of 2018 participated in a Graduation Walk in elementary schools throughout the district in what is planned to be an annual tradition for all graduating seniors in the Corvallis School District.  A small community in Texas started this tradition several years ago and it got started in our district in 2015 at Garfield Elementary through the vision and leadership of Diana Hammond.

This year, all graduating seniors were invited to walk the halls of their elementary school in their cap and gown as the elementary school students and staff cheered them on with singing, cheering and high fives. Cathy Wright, Post-Secondary Specialist coordinated the event this year. “This is an event that touches all students. It encourages and inspires young students who look up to their older peers and celebrates this rite of passage for seniors. The high school staff wanted a unique way to include elementary school staff in high school graduation.  This was a meaningful way to join the school communities together in celebration of the class of 2018.”

Graduating seniors reported to school on graduation day (June 8th) to board a bus to either Adams, Franklin, Garfield, Hoover, Jefferson, Lincoln, Mt. View, or Wilson Elementary Schools. The event included ALL students whether or not they attended a Corvallis elementary school. Once student completed the Grad Walk through the school, they returned to school for graduation practice.

“Elementary teachers gave hugs and high fives to students they taught years ago and shared with me how much it means to see these students on the verge of graduation and prepared to take the next step in their life. It is a gratifying experience for everyone,” said Ms. Wright. “We are excited to keep this tradition going and to celebrate the journey from kindergarten all the way through to graduation.”