The Class of 2020 is prepared for its last year of high school before its members begin their next chapter. So far, senior year, the long-awaited and bittersweet moment for the Gators, has been filled with planning for senior class-only events and enjoying their sisterhood as their last First Day of School rally, the Senior Splash, and the Giants game have flown by in what seems like a very short amount of time.

This year, the seniors were allowed to get creative on the various picture days for their photos. VSCO girls, aliens, and princesses crammed the Prestige photo booth, waiting to be captured for their last high school ID. But, the fun did end there as all seniors have to retake their pictures on September 26 for their school record. Along with the fun, more carefree pictures, official wallet-sized senior portraits have started to float around the school. Gators have started handing out their autographed images to peers and teachers as a token of remembrance while they get ready to depart NDB.

The Gator’s last welcome rally was one of their more successful rallies from the past three years. They stunned all other classes as well as faculty with the immense amount of spirit that they brought. They began the rally with a new senior chant led by student council members and continued to win many of the activities that ASB planned, coming out in first place.

The Senior Splash came next. Usually held late in the fall, this year it was moved to the second week of school as warmth filled the pool. Music, floaties, and snacks crowded the pool deck as seniors tried to get their sisters to join the fun for the traditional class picture.

Senior Delaney Fox said “It was such a great bonding experience for our class before we get ready to leave.”  She followed up, “We all had a great time!”

The Giants game took place on September 13 as the Gators made their way up to Oracle Park.

Senior Caterina Newman described the event as “a fun, bonding experience.” She said, “I will always remember the game as part of my Senior year!” Caterina watched the Giants defeat the Marlins 1-0.

Senior student council has been very busy, already planning for this year’s Spirit Week, Halloween, and even Aquacades.

Spirit Commissioner Avery McGlinchey shared her thoughts about senior year, saying, “I feel like I have a lot on my plate, but I want to make this year the best it can be. So I’ve started planning a lot already.”

She continues by saying, “I’m very excited for the rest of the year and to get my classmates as hyped as I am.”

Alisia Bergholm, Dean of Student Relations, stated, “There’s a lot of stuff that we can’t tell you yet, but just know, a lot of stuff is in the works and it’s all very exciting.” She is working closely with all student councils this year to ensure the success of every class and to help their ideas come to life.

Senior Class Coordinator Mirna Yao spoke about the Gators, saying “Right now, we are planning the big prom reveal as well as getting prepared for Aquacades and the other class spirit events.”

Along with all the fun senior events, the college application season has started. Seniors had started asking for teacher letters of recommendation as early as junior year, but now it is time for the writing to begin. College counselor Dina Cunha has begun visiting English classes while sharing her knowledge on the different types of college essays to ensure every student is prepared and can write an appealing and creative essay.

This year has consisted of the last of many firsts as the seniors experience bittersweet excitement in their anticipation to graduate. Watch out for them this year – They’re ready to bite back.