On a sunny, spirit-filled morning, the STA Class of 2026 celebrated their step up day. As the juniors prepared to become seniors, their celebration of this milestone took place on the top floor of the parking garage. Not only was this celebration a change of grade, it was a step forward into growth, unity, and an exciting journey ahead.

The tradition, which was started many years ago, consists of crown decorating, pictures, pancakes on the rooftop of the garage, and smiles all day long. Juniors are called to be the new role models and leaders for the underclassmen and this is celebrated throughout the day with a pep rally led by fellow students and treats distributed at lunch. The day is marked as a date of happiness and hope for the next year before leaving high school and moving onto a new life. 

The students arrived with their senior shirts on. The shirt was Pixar themed, and had a unique design of the house from “Up” on the back of the shirt. They also came with their own designed crowns to signify their step-up into being seniors of STA. The garage was turned into a festive space with music, decorated cars, and a pancake-making station.

Rising senior Luigi Landi, who tried the pancakes, noted that “The pancakes were amazing and I could not stop eating them.” He also stated, “The celebration was a warming way to celebrate our step-up.”

Throughout the morning, students were taking pictures with their friends in their festive crowns and in front of their beautifully decorated cars. There were also games going on such as ping pong, corn hole, and more. As the celebration came to an end, students were prideful and full of anticipation for their upcoming last year of high school.