SPOKANE, Wash. — Shadle Park High School seniors walked through the halls of their former middle and elementary schools today, participating in a tradition that gives students and their former teachers a chance to reconnect before graduation.
All Spokane Public School seniors are taking part in similar walks this week as they prepare for their graduation ceremonies.
For senior Jim Walling, the experience brought back powerful memories.
“Just amazing just to be out there and seeing all, you know, like mini you. I mean, that was me just a few years ago, and now I’m here graduating at Shadle Park High School. I mean, it’s just so, like, nostalgic,” Walling said.
For senior Emalie Smythe, the walk represents perseverance through difficult times.
“I honestly didn’t think I’d make it to graduation. I went through a lot sophomore and junior year. So, I’m really proud of myself that I’m here right now, being able to wear this,” Smythe said.
The graduation walk allowed students to reconnect with teachers who played important roles in their development. At Salk Middle School, former educators lined the halls to greet their former students.
The ceremonial walk will culminate on June 13, when the Shadle Park seniors will cross the stage at their official graduation ceremony.
As they prepare for the next chapter, many students have mapped out their futures. Senior Katie Beutel plans to attend Spokane Falls Community College before transferring to Western Washington University, with aspirations of becoming a dermatologist.
Before heading out on that adventure, the graduating seniors offered advice to younger students.
“Getting involved with everything. You know, sports, leadership, everything that you can. Because, you know, 12 years, it seems like a long time, but it comes so quick,” Walling advised.
COPYRIGHT 2026 BY KXLY. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THIS MATERIAL MAY NOT BE PUBLISHED, BROADCAST, REWRITTEN OR REDISTRIBUTED.
