By Raquel Grant and Tyler Zellous Staff Writers
What’s the big deal? It’s just a picture.
But cap and gown pictures turned out to be a special moment for many seniors and staff.
Senior adviser Elaine Hudson said she felt weepy as she watched the seniors putting on their caps and gowns on Nov. 14 for photos that will be in the senior section of the yearbook.
“This is a big step for them because it’s tangible and makes graduation more real,” Hudson said.
Senior Derica Mullins said things changed for some seniors after cap and gown pictures were taken.
“Their attitude changed from ‘I don’t care’ to ‘I can do this’ after picture day,” Mullins said.
Many seniors are getting serious because now that can really see themselves graduating. It’s also making them to work harder. Some of those who are taking classes on E2020 to recover missing credits said putting on the cap and gown really motivated them to work more.
But not everyone is ready. Resource teacher Edith Wine said she felt proud as she watched students put on caps and gowns, but she said she still worries about graduation.
“I am not ready because I think they’re not ready,” Wine said. “They have such a short time left to develop the skills for life.”
Later this month seniors will get together for a holiday event, and the senior pinning is coming up soon.
