Public Schools of the Tarrytowns Holds Beloved Annual Rose Ceremony

Sleepy Hollow High School (SHHS) seniors and W.L. Morse first-graders gathered on Harold "Doc" Rasbeck Field on October 11 to take part in a cherished tradition, the Annual Rose Ceremony. For the 33rd year, seniors welcomed first-graders into the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns by presenting them with a rose and a T-shirt. The Sleepy Hollow High School Chorus sang a beautiful rendition of “Child of Tomorrow” for students and parents who attended this touching ceremony.

This unique custom creates a bond between the graduating class and those beginning their educational journey. "The Rose Ceremony is a wonderful tradition that demonstrates the deep caring and community that exists in our school district," said W.L. Morse Principal Torrance Walley. As the seniors reflect on their time in the district, the first-graders are given a glimpse into what their future holds.

"The rose ceremony is a wonderful tradition that allows our students to deeply reflect on the totality of their experiences in our district,” said SHHS Principal Dr. Deborah Brand about this beloved custom. “Seniors are fortunate to have this unique rite of passage so early in their final year in the district. While connecting them with their classmates and younger peers, it helps them to create a more meaningful and purposeful final year in the district. We hope the day was memorable for the students and their families."

While 2035 may seem like a lifetime away for the first-graders, for the graduating class of 2024 time has passed with lightning speed. In the spring the same group of students will gather once again. This time the first-graders will present a rose to the seniors as they wish them well on their journey.