On Friday, April 29th, Westridge and the College Counseling Department hosted their annual ‘Chalk Day’ tradition for graduating seniors. Every year since 2011, Westridge seniors have covered Foreman Courtyard in drawings of colleges’ logos. This year, tears were shed, hands were covered in chalk, and the Class of 2022 came together to reflect on their achievements.
The event started off as seniors slowly made their way to the courtyard, grabbing their stencils and choosing their chalk. Marcie Robinson, college counselor (and the most bubbly person on campus), described the significance of the event. “We are thrilled to celebrate every one of our 67 seniors’ futures and we’re excited to have our younger [students] get to be a part of it here too. We’re just really excited.”
Jessica T., a senior, reflected on the momentous event. “[Chalk day] is really special for me. I saw my sister do it four years ago, so it’s great to be in her shoes. I love that I was able to make my logo with a bunch of classmates that are also going to the same school. I’m really excited for the next steps of my educational journey.”
Hank Chilton, the father of a senior, said that this year’s chalk day was especially special because of the impact the pandemic had on the class of 2022’s high school experience. He said, “The fact that they are still moving on and thriving and finding their next place that they’re going to go, it’s a great tribute to Westridge and themselves. They all found the places they are supposed to be.”
Bonnie Singh ’14, Administrative Assistant to College Counseling, said in her speech, “Be true to yourself. As you go into college, you’ll take your interests, passions, and issues you care about with you. You’ll even find new ones—that’s what college is all about. Be the Westridge students we know you all to be. Use your voice, prioritize the things that matter to you, and forge your own path; the boldness will follow.”
This year was a notable one for the College Counseling department as it marked the last year that Mrs. Lynn O’Grady would be on the team. Her presence on campus and impact on upperclassmen throughout her tenure were acknowledged by many.
The celebration concluded with a toast. Seniors grabbed their sparkling cider, a cupcake, some friends, and they cheered.
The day was filled with booming emotions, positivity, and hope. Upper School Teacher Daniel Calmeyer said, “This senior class dealt with all the adversity with COVID and came through smiling on the other side; look at them now! All of their fears about colleges dissipated on this glorious Chalk Day where they get to celebrate the pinnacle of their achievement. I couldn’t be more proud of them.”