MANCHESTER – Two generations of Manchester students were brought together recently to literally “pass the torch” on the high school athletic field on warm sunny day.
Kindergarten parents of the Class of 2037 came for a unique ceremony which is the first of its kind for the district. It was created by graduating student Jamie Popek, who is joining the U.S. Coast Guard after graduation.
“Our seniors stand here today, ready to pass on the lessons they have learned, the dreams they have nurtured, and the hope they have carried forward throughout their years in Manchester,” Superintendent Diane Pedroza said. “As we gather on this field, our kindergarteners look ahead with bright eyes and open hearts, and our seniors reflect on how far they have already come. It is a moment to celebrate the journey, from the first days of school, through all the challenges and triumphs, to this proud moment of graduation and beyond.”
The superintendent noted that in Manchester “we are guided by the principle of ‘Excellence by Example,’ and today’s event embodied that spirit perfectly. Kindergarten students were met on the field where the MTHS graduation occurs by a MTHS senior who passed the ‘torch’ to them, which was represented by a beautifully donated shirt thanks to the Manchester Police Benevolent Association and Manchester Township High School.”
The goals of this ceremony were relatively simple – to foster community spirit, to inspire the youngest learners as they take their first steps on their educational journey, and to honor the senior class for all they have achieved.
The MTHS seniors who led by example throughout their time here, now literally and figuratively passed the torch of excellence to Manchester’s kindergarteners, encouraging them to carry it forward with pride and determination.
The event marked the beginning of what will become a tradition for the school district that bring students beginning and completing their journey through the school system together in celebration, reflection, and unity.
Popek, MTHS Principal Dennis Adams, the school district’s Transportation Department, and the support team of students and staff at MTHS who helped make the event possible, received a big thank you after the completion of the event.
Special thanks were also extended to the kindergarten students and MTHS seniors who came together for this event, and the parents who were on hand for the day. The ceremony marked a special page in history for the Class of 2025 and the Class of 2037.
