It’s the last first day for the seniors of the Class of ’26. As tradition stands at Sunlake High School, seniors celebrate their final first day by attending their first senior event: Senior Sunrise. Senior Sunrise is an early morning tradition where all the seniors gather right at sunrise to celebrate the beginning of their last year of high school. They enjoy breakfast, spend time with their friends, and take in the moment together. Senior Alivia Martin thought this was the perfect way to begin her year. “I wanted to be part of one of our first senior traditions,” she said. “My favorite part was just being surrounded by my friends, seeing how far we’ve all come, and realizing we’re starting this final chapter together.” For Alivia, the moment felt bigger than just watching the sun come up. “It honestly felt surreal celebrating our last first day at Senior Sunrise,” she said. “Part of me still feels like that freshman wandering the halls, trying to find my classes and adjust to high school.” Alivia still can’t believe that many of the people standing beside her are the same ones she knew in middle school now more grown up and preparing for the future. Looking ahead, she’s most excited for all the senior traditions to come. “I promised myself I’d do everything including skit, powderpuff, all of it. But I’m especially looking forward to senior night for volleyball.” Throughout the year, seniors participate in many events that make their last year special and celebrate the accomplishment of making it all the way through grade school. When asked how it feels to officially be a senior, Alivia explained, “It’s overwhelming and nerve-wracking figuring out the future. But I’m also really proud to be at this point in my life. It’s bittersweet, but I know it’ll be a year full of memories.” Alivia is excited to go through her final year with her best friends and to experience everything this milestone year has to offer together.