Local elementary students recently went to high school. More than 80 sixth graders from seven schools that feed into Taylorsville High got a look at their future in a pep rally customized just for them.

The rally showcased many of the programs and activities available at the high school. The cheerleaders, dance team, jazz band and Madrigals all performed.

The sixth graders got to see football players suited up, along with representatives from other programs, including the fire training and preschool teaching programs.

The rally grew out of a program that began three years ago, when Superintendent Dr. Martin Bates gave kindergarteners in the district T-shirts with the year of their future graduation printed on it.

“This year we wanted to really hit home and help our students understand this is where they’d be going in four years. We wanted to have them get a feel for why school is important,” said Taylorsville Elementary Principal Michelle Love-Day, a major impetus behind the program.

At the end of the assembly, all seven principals came out in caps and gowns and wearing 2021 sashes. 

The event was capped off with students shouting, “2021, 2021! We’re the Class of 2021!” Each of them was also were presented with certificates that said, “Future Graduate 2021” and his/her name.