More than just a morning– Senior Sunrises jumpstart the greatest year of high school

     Many high schools across Gwinnett County engage in a time-honored tradition, the Senior Sunrise. Senior Sunrise sets the tone for everything to come: the thrill of football season, the sparkle of homecoming, the excitement of senior photos, yearbook signings, prom, the emotional moment of receiving a cap and gown, and graduation.

     This is the kickoff to the Class of 2026’s final chapter of high school, a year packed with participation in clubs, sports, performances, and traditions that will stay with seniors forever. The Senior Sunrise gives students a sense of community at Grayson High School. They can connect with friends, celebrate final moments, and start new traditions.

"[Senior sunrise is] the start of our next chapter, which is loading...." says Grayson senior David.

     From decorating cars at 6:00 a.m. to laughing, crying, and dreaming together on the Duluth High School football field, Senior Sunrise is filled with energy, emotion, and unforgettable memories. It’s the perfect way to kick off senior year with heart, joy, and a lot of donuts! Students pose with custom Senior Sunrise photo cutouts and soak in every moment.

     “Senior Sunrise is more than just our first senior activity; it's a celebration of everything our seniors have accomplished and a joyful look ahead to the incredible year to come,” says Duluth High teacher and senior class sponsor, Jacqueline Cain.

     Cain explains that this tradition began during the challenges of 2020, when just 40 seniors gathered in their cars, listening to music and flashing their headlights as the sun rose. It was their way of saying: “We're in this together.” Since then, Senior Sunrise has grown into something truly special, with more than 260 seniors now joining in.

   At North Gwinnett High School, Senior Sunrise allows every senior to have a formal kickoff to the new school year. Students eat donuts, take photos under a balloon arch, and add their handprints to a banner celebrating their senior year.

     “Our senior officers love to have an event where all of their classmates are encouraged to gather and start this final step of a 13-year journey together,” says North Gwinnett High Assistant Principal Kristen Baker.

For Mountain View High School students, Senior Sunrise is all about celebrating that they have finally made it to senior year.

     “Senior Sunrise helps us celebrate the start of our final year by bringing everyone together. It’s a moment to reflect on the hard work and challenges we’ve faced, but also to look forward to all the memories we’re about to make as seniors,” says Sydney, a Mountain View High senior. “It sets the tone for the year, reminding us that this is our time to shine and enjoy every last moment of high school.”

     Senior leaders add that they’ve worked hard for 13 years, going through a pandemic and everything in between, and pushed through. Now they get to rise into senior year together.

     “It’s more than just a morning; it’s a memory in the making. A celebration of friendship, growth, and the incredible year ahead,” Cain adds.