Senior Sunrise marks the dawn of a final year

Posted Sept. 4, 2024

Morning clouds hung over Palermini Stadium, but the mood was bright and awake on this early morning of the last first day of school for this year's seniors at David Douglas High School. Around 140 seniors showed up to eat donuts, drink coffee, make some crafts, and reconnect with friends. 

Senior year brings mixed feelings to many students. "I'm excited, but not really, at the same time," said senior Mona Brines, who was wearing a large pink dinosaur. New principal Jennifer Buscher hyped up the crowd. "This year is going to fly by," she warned, then exhorted them to "set the example for the underclassmen" this year.

Students gathered in groups on blankets on the new turf, painted some jeans, and worked at crafts tables. 

According to grad mentor Jeremiah Branch, Douglas has 569 seniors enrolled, slightly up from 573 at the time last year.