“Senior Sunrise was a huge success! The turnout was amazing, and the energy was incredible. It was the perfect way to start our final year together, and I hope we can continue this participation and energy throughout the year. I can’t wait to see what we accomplish as a class and to make the most of every moment we have left at Poly!” –Anna Brandmeyer ’26, Student Government

On Friday, September 5, just days into their Grade 12 year, Upper School students gathered to mark the beginning of the end of a defining chapter in their lives. Senior Sunrise, along with its counterpart, Senior Sunset held in the spring prior to Commencement, has become a meaningful tradition for the year’s graduating class.

During their time at Poly, these students have discovered their favorite academic courses and clubs, debuted in school productions, participated in and won debate tournaments, saw victories on the fields and courts, and so much more. They’ve also concluded where on campus is the best spot to study, eat, and connect with each other. Milestones big and small at Poly were shared and watching the sun come up together, they reflected on their experiences.

As the day dawned, students who once had to learn how to navigate Dyker Height’s sprawling campus, now walked onto the backfields as a seasoned Grade 12 class–carrying all their Poly memories with them. Joined by members of school leadership and the dean team, the Class of 2026 spent the morning wrapped in blankets, wearing comfortable attire, eating a bagel breakfast, and writing letters to their future selves. Those letters will return to them in the spring during Senior Sunset, the event that officially opens graduation season.

“Senior year asks you to prepare for the future, reflect on the path that led you here, and enjoy the present moment as you take this last lap around the sun together at Poly. This can be challenging, so reach out to those who can help if you have difficulty finding your balance. Shifting your weight is always easier when you ask for support.” –Jared Winston, Dean of Students 

“Live in the moment, be good to each other, dial down the college stress for yourself and others by venting to your deans when you need to!” –Emily Gardiner Herzog P’24, Upper School Deans Department Chair and Director of College Guidance 

“Today’s Senior Sunrise was testament to the strength of the bonds within this community. Some of our students woke up as early as 4:00 AM to attend this event for themselves and for each other. They reflected on their time at Poly with pride and imagined their time beyond Poly with excitement and hope.” –Cherkira Lashley, Upper School dean

“Seeing the students gathered at Senior Sunrise this morning was so meaningful. In just four years the event has grown from 30 students to over 120! It was wonderful to see the community this class has built with one another and I can’t wait to see how it develops over the rest of the school year!” –Perri Meeks, Upper School dean