Each school rolled out a red carpet and assembled a cheering section of staff and students. Some seniors handed out notes of thanks to special teachers, and gave Portrait of a Graduate stickers to students. The events were held at all elementary and middle schools in DSD on May 21 and 22. Walk Stars is a collaboration between the district's Communications Department, Durango High School's Student Council, and each school's administrative staff.
Looking back: "Everything is so small!" was a common refrain. The event was a chance for seniors to roam the halls of their old schools and reminisce about classes, teachers, and their younger selves.
Portraits of our graduates: Walk Stars is a new district-wide event launched in 2024 to align with the Portrait of a Graduate vision. Graduating is a peak moment of triumph for seniors and an inspiration for staff and students.
Look, it's Future You! Seniors had fun, felt honored, and helped younger students see that graduation is an important goal for their future.
"It goes by fast! Enjoy the moment." Seniors waved hello to students at their old schools and reminded them that in a handful of years they would get to walk the red carpet.
They turned out good. Teachers and staff had emotional moments of reconnection after not seeing students for years. They exchanged hugs, tears, and memories while seniors shared future plans after graduation.
Get your tissues out: Some staff members were extra-emotional to see their old students and their children or grandchildren walk the red carpet. The younger siblings of the Walk Star VIPs had a moment to proudly point out their older brother or sister.
Look! It's tiny you. Each school made the event unique with gifts and surprises. Some schools held the walk outside, some indoors winding through the hallways. Animas Valley Elementary staff dug up old photos of the graduating class to share with seniors.
Fifteen minutes of fame: Each school had a chance to demonstrate school pride during the short 15-minute event, followed by students wandering hallways and greeting teachers. At Riverview, seniors joined a P.E. class for a quick game. Other seniors chatted with younger students on swing sets, giving them advice to "work hard, study a lot, and choose good friends."
Escalante Middle School
Animas Valley Elementary
Miller Middle School
Park Elementary School
Sunnyside Elementary School
Fort Lewis Mesa Elementary School
