With senior year finally underway, a wave of excitement and tradition takes over the student body. At Grayslake North, senior year is more than just the final chapter of high school; it’s a time to celebrate, reflect, and create lasting memories with classmates. One of the first traditions to kick off the year is the much-anticipated Senior Sunrise. This beloved event has become a symbol of the beginning and end of the high school journey.

“I’m excited for all the fun senior activities, like Senior Sunrise and my Senior Night for volleyball and softball,” said senior Raygen Moore, looking forward to the months ahead.

Senior Sunrise has been a long-standing tradition at Grayslake North, offering students a chance to gather early in the morning to watch the sunrise together. Blankets, cozy hoodies, sweatpants, and making breakfast in the parking lot, along with the company of close friends, all come together to make the experience memorable. It’s a peaceful yet powerful moment for seniors to reflect on how far they’ve come while anticipating what lies ahead.

“It was so bittersweet to see the whole senior class all together,’’ said senior Kailey Dawson.

For many students, it’s a morning filled with laughter, photos, and a sense of unity.

“Senior Sunrise was a blast,” said senior Olivia Abel. “I was able to play music, take pictures, share many giggles with my friends, and make memories that will last forever.”

“Senior Sunrise was so much fun,” senior Amber Mikel said. “I got to hang out with all my friends.” 

With all the traditions and memories, the time doesn’t stop ticking, and soon comes the time to take the next step into the next chapter of your life

“I realized it’s my last year with all of them, but all the pictures I took will last forever,” added Mikel.

As they take photos, share laughs, and soak in the calm of the morning, students are beginning to realize that their final year is truly underway — and it all starts with a sunrise.