The Springfield Renaissance School’s seniors participated in the school’s annual College March on Friday, December 13, starting at 9 a.m. The event began at Symphony Hall, where the Class of 2025 will graduate in June, and proceeded to the United States Post Office at 1338 Main Street. Ninth graders joined the seniors on this journey, connecting the beginning and end of the high school experience.
The College March is a nationwide tradition involving seniors from more than 25 schools. It highlights students striving to overcome barriers to college enrollment. This year marks nearly a decade of Renaissance participating in the national event, organized for Expeditionary Learning (EL) Education schools. By modeling their college-focused mission, seniors aim to inspire younger students and offer them a vision of success for their high school years.
Mayor Sarno states, “Congratulations to the Springfield Renaissance School Class of 2025 Seniors on beginning your post-graduate journeys and what a special way of being able to celebrate all of your accomplishments to date. I hope that the freshmen who partook in this event got first hand knowledge, if you work hard, you will achieve.”
The event began at 7:45 a.m. at the school. Seniors addressed ninth graders, focusing on the importance of college access for urban and first-generation students. As part of the tradition, each senior presented a ninth-grade student with a letter of encouragement and advice.
The College March began as a way for seniors to walk together to mail their college applications. While applications are now submitted online through platforms like the Common App, the march continues as a tradition. Seniors use this opportunity to send thank-you letters to those who have supported them through their college journey.
This event celebrates determination, gratitude, and the belief that education empowers students to reach their goals.
