Graduating seniors return to where it all began at Post Road Elementary School

The hallways of Post Road School were filled with cheers, smiles and fond memories Wednesday morning as graduating seniors returned to their former elementary school for a Senior Walk to celebrate how far they have come.

The event, now in its second year, welcomed seniors back to the school where their educational journey began just one day before their high school graduation. Students were greeted by former teachers and staff, received childhood photos of themselves from their years at Post Road and walked through the halls as current students waved congratulatory signs and applauded their accomplishments.

“It’s bittersweet,” said senior Lizbeth Pacheco, who will attend Westchester Community College in the fall. “I haven’t been here in so long. Being here is so surreal.”  

Principal Jesimae Ossorio described the event as a meaningful full-circle moment for students and staff alike.

“This is where it all began,” Ms. Ossorio said. “This is where we laid the foundation and where they started to learn about themselves. They get a chance to come back, see their old teachers and walk through the halls they used to walk through. It’s very emotional and very special, especially for our staff.”

Addressing the seniors in the auditorium before the walk, Assistant Principal Robert Spedafino encouraged them to embrace every moment of the experience.

“Really enjoy the moments when you’re going through the hallways and seeing your teachers,” he said. “Take that selfie with that teacher because they didn’t forget about you. They are so excited that you are here. This is one of our favorite events because it’s so nice to have you come back to this community.”

Ms. Ossorio reminded students of the important role their elementary school years played in shaping their futures.

“This is where you started,” she said, after choking up with emotion. “Maybe high school is what’s fresh in your mind, but this is where all of the teachers here laid the foundation. We helped shape your future. This is where everything begins.”

She also encouraged students to stay true to themselves as they embark on the next chapter of their lives.

“You’re going to take very separate, individual journeys,” she said. “Stay true to who you are and to your values. Always remember the people who care about you and want you to be successful.”

For senior Asher Nerenberg, returning to Post Road brought back vivid memories.

“It’s crazy,” he said. “It’s been so long, but I still feel like I remember it like it was yesterday.”

Asher, who will attend Vanderbilt University to study mechanical engineering, said he was thrilled to reconnect with former teachers.

“I think I’ve seen like eight out of 12 of my teachers,” he said. “I love this event. It’s great for students to come back.”

Throughout the visit, seniors posed for photos with former teachers, took selfies with classmates and revisited familiar classrooms and hallways. The celebration concluded with a reception in the courtyard and a group photo on the school’s front steps.

As students prepared to leave Post Road once again, this time as high school graduates ready to begin new journeys, the Senior Walk served as a reminder of how much they have grown and of the elementary school community that helped set them on their path.

Similar Senior Walk celebrations were held at elementary schools throughout the White Plains City School District.