PARK CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT SENIORS WALK DOWN MEMORY LANE WITH ELEMENTARY SCHOOL VISITS

PHOTOS

Park City, UT—In a heartwarming new tradition, the graduating senior class of 2024 took a nostalgic trip down memory lane by visiting their former elementary schools. This event, now in its second year, saw seniors walk through the hallways of Trailside Elementary, Parley's Park Elementary, Jeremy Ranch Elementary, and McPolin Elementary, where they were greeted with cheers and high-fives from enthusiastic younger students.

The initiative, which began last year exclusively at Trailside Elementary, has now expanded to include all four elementary schools within the Park City School District. 

The efforts of the Senior Class Officers, led by President Scarlett Brinton, made this event possible by coordinating it between the seniors and the elementary schools. Their planning ensured that the event ran smoothly, highlighting the effective leadership and gratitude of the graduating class of 2024.

As the seniors paraded through the familiar hallways, the younger students, many of whom aspire to follow in the seniors' footsteps, were visibly excited and motivated by the older students' presence. Past teachers joined in the celebration, reminiscing about their former students and sharing in the joy of their achievements. 

Suzanne Sheridan, a special education teacher at McPolin Elementary and parent of two class 2024 graduates, shared her heartfelt reflections on the recent graduation ceremony. The event marked a significant milestone for the school and its students, especially the first Dual Language Immersion (DLI) graduating class.

"Watching all the students clap for the first DLI graduating class brought joy to the McPolin family,” said Sheridan. “As a teacher and a parent of two graduates, I loved seeing this amazing group of students walk proudly while reminiscing on their McPolin memories. This moment brought what we do every day full circle!" 

Dr. Jill Gildea, superintendent of the Park City School District, shared her reflections on the dedication and hard work that go into supporting students from their first day of kindergarten to their graduation day. Drawing from her own experiences as a teacher, she highlighted the significance of community involvement in these achievements.

“The Park City School District, together with the community, is proud to support and celebrate its students from their first day of kindergarten to their graduation day,” said Dr. Gildea. “As someone who started my career as a teacher, I understand the dedication and hard work that goes into guiding students to this milestone and the efforts across each employee group that brings our students a successful experience. From the first bus ride to the first time a student carries a lunch tray through experiences in academics, arts, athletics, and activities, events like this, celebrating our seniors' achievements, bring to mind the countless hours dedicated to supporting each student’s academic development.”