It is very common for high schools to put together fun activities for seniors so they can have a memorable year before graduation. Shadow Ridge High School has a tradition of holding a ‘Senior Sunrise’ every year, along with multiple other entertaining activities throughout the year. During the 2025-2026 school year, the sunrise date fell on August 15, 2025.
The Senior Sunrise is set up so seniors can come to school early and have breakfast and a hangout with friends. Shadow offers students a variety of foods to choose from. Over the past couple of years they have brought donuts, drinks, etc.
There have always been a pros and cons list related to the senior sunrise function. As much as Shadow students enjoy the senior sunrise, there can be some conflicts. Some high schoolers mentioned that it was too early in the morning and the weather can sometimes be a problem, occasionally it will be too hot and other times too windy/cold.
Despite a few downsides, many seniors still find the event meaningful. It’s a unique way to start their final year of high school, giving them a moment to reflect, connect with classmates, and make new memories. Students often bring blankets, take photos, and just enjoy being in each other’s company before the school day begins.
Senior, Briley Fawson, went to senior sunrise. She had mentioned beforehand that she was excited to make new memories at the first event of the year, as well as all the upcoming activities as it is her final year at The Ridge.
“I am looking forward to seeing my friends because I have known them since freshman year. I am also very excited to see all the senior outfits. The only thing I do not really want to do is wake up that early to go watch the sunrise! Nothing else is that bad about senior sunrise,” commented Fawson.
Many seniors also use the event as a time to take photos for social media, or simply to capture a memory with their friends. Some write messages in journals or take selfies with the sunrise in the background. It becomes more than just a school event. It’s something personal to each student.
Fawson stated, “I also want to take pictures with all my friends who saw me grow up all 4 years. This is the start of my senior year and I am going to make more memories after this too.”
After visiting the senior event, Adalynn Christensen had a great time at the sunrise, even with the downfall of early nervousness and waking up so early.
“My favorite thing about Senior Sunrise was being able to hang out with all my friends. There were also games like spike ball, cornhole, and hacky sack that we were able to play. My least favorite thing about it was that we had to wake up super early to get there on time for the sunrise. Also, at first, it was kind of boring and awkward because everyone was standing around, but eventually we had fun,” mentioned Christensen.
Senior Sunrise continues to be a tradition that sets the tone for the year ahead, symbolizing both an end and a beginning for the graduating class. It’s a moment of calm before the business of senior year starts, reminding the students to savor each milestone along the way.
