Travis Early College High School seniors dressed in red caps and gowns fiddled with their tassels and stoles as they got off the bus and walked into Dawson Elementary on Tuesday. They were there for their senior walk — a last chance to retrace the halls of the elementary school where their education journey began.
Once inside Dawson, they peeked into the library, walked past the counselor and nurse’s offices, and into the cafeteria that smelled the same as they remembered. Kindergarten, first and second graders were having lunch. Dawson’s assistant principal announced the soon-to-be graduates and the younger students cheered and clapped for the seniors.
The class of 2026 will be the last senior walk at the South Austin school. Dawson is one of 10 schools set to close before next school year— a decision from the district after facing budget deficits multiple years.
During senior walks, graduating 12th graders get to retrace their steps through the halls of their elementary schools as they prepare for their next steps. It’s an opportunity to reconnect with former classmates and teachers who had a big impact on them, while also inspiring younger students…