The Rome High School gymnasium was filled with students, parents and siblings on Tuesday evening as the school held its senior pinning event.
Rome High Principal Parke Wilkinson took a long look around the gym before taking to the podium and speaking.
“Last year, we did this, and it wasn't like this. We didn't have near the crowd that we have tonight. The Class of 2026 doesn't have as many students as the Class of 2025. Y'all have taken over this gym completely. So that is really cool,” he said.
Wilkinson instructed the seniors, who had all picked up pins as they entered the gym, to hand that pin to a family member. He then read the senior pledge for the Class of 2026, asking all of the seniors to repeat after him. The seniors pledged to do their best, to work hard, and to graduate. After finishing the pledge, Wilkinson asked family members to pin their students.
Mothers, fathers, siblings, and others then carefully put the pin on their students with many hugging their students, taking selfies, and some even wiping away tears.
Once the pinning ended, Wilkinson took to the podium again.
“To the Class of 26, this is it. I know there are going to be a lot of last pictures, a lot of last TikToks, and videos throughout this year. We're here to celebrate you and your families and kick off this senior year. You have goals that you want to accomplish, so I implore you not to let anything stop you or stand in your way. Continue to set academic and non-academic goals and look at each as a learning opportunity for growth,” he said.
He warned the seniors about senioritis, telling them it is something to be avoided and encouraged them to buckle down and continue to work hard.
He also took a moment to aim a message at the parents and family members in the crowd.
“Parents and guardians, soak up every single minute of this school year. If you haven't experienced this before, then learn from a father of three. You will shed a lot of tears. You will deal with a lot of emotions throughout the year,” he said. “One thing is for sure. You will never get this opportunity again with the person sitting next to you. Never. You already know how important it is. Please enjoy this time and cherish this time. Make a lot of memories.”
Wilkinson then finished with a final message to the seniors.
“Students, take a minute to think back. From kindergarten to first grade, sixth grade, and middle school, you have shown a lot of tremendous commitment. Think about the things that bring a smile to your face. Think about the challenges that you faced throughout all those years,” he said. “You've gone through a lot of adversity. Be proud of the person you are today. My advice for you is to look to the future, but enjoy the present. Continue to make good decisions and to work hard to achieve your goals. I'm very proud of you.”