Celebratory events scheduled for Hempfield seniors

Hempfield seniors might not be able to continue the tradition of donning caps and gowns and walking the hallways of their former elementary schools this year, but they will celebrate their achievements during a modified senior walk.

Normally scheduled for the end of May, the annual event allows students to reconnect with former teachers and staff.

Because of the pandemic and school closures, walk founder Robin Auckerman is planning an outdoor event at Hempfield Park, giving seniors the chance to walk through the park in their caps and gowns surrounded by community members. At the conclusion, seniors will walk across the amphitheater stage.

“They’re really getting the shaft because they missed out on the last quarter of their senior year,” Auckerman, of Grapeville, said. “Most of them have had senioritis for a lot longer than the last quarter but this is when it kicks in. They get to do their proms and they get to do their senior trips … This is their time. Everybody’s affected by this, but I just wanted to focus on them for now. They need something.”

The event is planned for July 10, and is dependent on if Westmoreland County is in the green phase, which lifts some of the more stringent coronavirus precautions put in place by Gov. Tom Wolf in March. Social distancing and face masks will be required, Auckerman said, depending on the latest recommendations.

Food and drink donations are being accepted for a small gathering afterwards.

“I’m pretty excited to see it actually happen. … Everybody seems pretty excited,” Auckerman said. “The school district’s excited about it, the township’s excited about it. I just hope the enthusiasm holds for that day.”

Auckerman held the first senior walk at Hempfield’s Maxwell Elementary School is 2016 when her son Branson was graduating. She got the idea for the walk after seeing a school in Texas host a similar event. The senior walk has been held every year since.

Another celebration is planned by the district on Thursday. The senior drive will allow students to drive past their elementary, middle and high schools to wave to teachers and staff.

Elementary staff will expect students at 2 p.m., middle school teachers at 2:30 p.m. and the high school staff at 3 p.m. Students are required to remain in their vehicles. At the conclusion of the event, a Hempfield fire truck will lead the procession from the high school, through the campus, and onto Route 136.

“We are so very proud of you and look forward to celebrating with you in this manner,” Superintendent Tammy Wolicki wrote in a letter to parents.

District officials are planning a traditional graduation for July 18. By the first week of June, seniors will be able to view a virtual graduation ceremony with speakers and submitted photographs of all seniors.