To end the 2025-26 year off on a good note, Heritage Link came together to put on a special farewell assembly for the graduating class of 2026. The assembly took place at the end of the day on Thursday, May 14, and lasted for about 30 minutes. This assembly was put together by the LINK program, to celebrate the senior class on their last day. Heritage counselor and LINK supervisor, Mrs Mary Abbott says “Just like how we welcomed them as freshmen, we wanted to give them their farewell.” On top of that, the assembly congratulates spring sports athletes, and any retirees at the school.
When asked about the background of the assembly, Abbott says “It’s a big partnership. The LINK coordinators rely on our student leaders, and within LINK we have additional leaders called the commissioners—they’re the ones who run both assemblies and we help coordinate with student government. They also help us put together the video for spring sports, and then we also recognise our retirees.”
Many students seem to enjoy this assembly, because there is a special activity that all classes participate in. After the seniors leave the gym, and their corner of the gym is open, the junior class gets to move over. Then the sophomores get to cross the gym and take their spots in the junior area. And just like everyone else, the freshman can slide over to the sophomore spot, leaving an open area for the incoming freshman. Dillon Flanegen ‘26 says “I feel like it was a good way to send the seniors off while also allowing the other grades to fill in their new levels.”
Saying goodbye to such an iconic class must be hard for most teachers. Abbott says “The senior class always means something special to our school, so when sending them off, there are a lot of memories walking out that door, and when I’m giving them their final farewell, it’s hard to not cry, because there are so many good people going out that door.” Graduating is a big step for seniors. They are taking the next big step into their lives. Abbott says that the most important thing that the seniors should take with them is, “They are special, and they are going to make a great impact on the world. They need to keep being who they are, amazing human beings, and we are so very proud of them.”