On May 6, 20126, the graduating class of Explore 2000 Middle School held its Ring Ceremony. The first Ring Ceremony celebrated in the new building was an emotional event. It symbolized the end of one era and the beginning of a new one. The Third Year class faced the audience of First and Second Year students as they received their class rings and relived memories.
Each Third Year student was introduced by a video description by Second Year students or teachers. Each introduction began with a characterization of the student, ending with the student's name. Many of the videos brought laughter to the listeners. One by one, the graduating class came to the podium and received their ring which was placed on their fingers by Ms. Garrett and Ms Norcia. Parents and friends commemorated the moment with photos.
A slideshow of pictures featuring the experiences of the Class of 2016. The class enjoyed sharing the memories.
The history of class rings was shared. The class ring tradition began in 1835 at West Point Military Academy when rings were given to show unity of the class members and remembrance of the experience of their time at the Academy. Included in class ring tradition is turning the ring for good luck. The number of turns corresponds to the year of graduation. The class of 2016 will turn their rings 116 times.