The entire student body at Seminole Heights Elementary in Tampa - nearly 500 students - took part in the annual Pledge to Graduate Walk on Friday.
- Pledge to Graduate Walk now in 21st year
- Students walk from their campus to Hillsborough High School
- Walk represents students' commitment to eventual high school graduation
The students walked 12 blocks along Central Avenue from their campus to Hillsborough High School. The walk is part of the students' pledge to continue to work hard, do their best, and graduate from high school.
"It's very fun," said fifth-grader Dylan Patino.
Upon their arrival at Hillsborough High, the students were greeted with fanfare provided by the high school's band, cheerleaders and members of ROTC.
This is the 21st year that Seminole Heights Elementary School students have undertaken the Pledge to Graduate Walk. A former school counselor came up with the idea, which aims to build student excitement about graduating.
The Pledge to Graduate Walk is also part of Hillsborough County School's commitment to lifting graduation rates through the county.
"We are committed by year 2020 to have a 90 percent graduation rate in this district," said Hillsborough County School Deputy Superintendent Van Ayres.