On the way to Saturday's graduation exercises, a veteran teacher opined, "This may be the most likable senior class ever."
It certainly is true that different classes have distinct qualities, personalities and styles.
This may reflect the ability of the admission process to attract kids who are positive, ethical and invested, but some of it is not in our immediate control.
Leadership within the class contributes to an emerging sense of identity, no doubt. But there has to be a
tipping point at which a critical mass of students simply
like each other, and become aware of it.
The notion that there is something special about the Class of 2013 was proved repeatedly at graduation, when each mention of the class prompted an eruption of voices and applause. And the standing ovation from parents, relatives and others as the class entered the tent was sustained and genuine.
Of course, every senior class has a sense of identity and pride, and the process through which this evolves is witnessed and--perhaps--learned by juniors and other younger students.
Perhaps the Class of 2014 will seem the most likable ever!
