No Tunnel or Hall Runs But Cheers For Seniors

Seniors will be recognized when school opens next Wednesday but it'll be in a more buttoned-down fashion than opening day ceremonies in recent years.

In recent years seniors formed a loud senior tunnel at the entrance to the school, passed through by freshmen, sophomores and juniors.

The seniors then entered the school and charged through the halls in a loud ritual that made it clear that they were the senior class.

On Thursday, Aug. 22, in the school auditorium, Swampscott High Principal Ed Rozmiarek met for more than an hour with about 10 students and 10 parents, part of the time explaining why he will not allow the tunnel and run.

He said the tunnel could intimidate some students and the run was one slip and fall away from an injury. 

If one student fell while running the stairwell it could cause a chain reaction and lead to multiple serious injuries, he said.

Furthermore, he did not like the chaotic tone the activities set for the first day.

Still, the seniors' first day will not pass unmarked.

After a series of discussions with students and others the principal approved the following:

• This year, some seniors will come to school the night before opening day and decorate the atrium.

• On opening day, after school has started, around mid-morning, they will stand outside the auditorium as the other classes enter for an all-school assembly.

• The seniors will then be the last class to enter the auditorium and take their seats in the front rows for a senior cheer.

Senior Tristan Smith, a student representative to the Swampscott School Committee, said he appreciated the principal taking the time to explain his position and discuss it with students.  But he was disappointed with the outcome.