East Rochester students recently participated in one of the district’s most beloved traditions with Moving Up Day, a spirited annual event honoring the senior class and marking the symbolic "moving up" of each high school grade level.

This year’s celebration continued a tradition that dates back 95 years. According to research by East Rochester librarian and alumna Anita Mance, the first Moving Up Day was held in May 1931 in Edmund Lyon Park, behind the old high school. The original event included the coronation of a king and queen chosen by student votes, musical entertainment, and interclass athletics. The class song contest was added in 1940, and the transfer of leadership responsibilities from seniors to juniors began in the 1950s with the traditional "Passing of the Spade."

During this year’s ceremony, students celebrated the Class of 2026 with parodied songs rewritten with East Rochester-themed lyrics, the crowning of King Judah Tanner and Queen Lucy Walter, and plenty of Bomber pride. Each class performed two songs, including one highlighting their own class achievements and another serving as a farewell to the seniors. The juniors took home this year’s song competition win, with performances to "Good Old Days" by Macklemore and "I Just Might" by Bruno Mars.

The festivities also included honoring the 2026 Yearbook Gagashoan dedication and recognition recipients. The 2025-26 yearbook was proudly dedicated to Mrs. Cynthia Brandt in honor of her unwavering support, encouragement, and positive impact on East Rochester students. As a graduation coach, Mrs. Brandt has helped countless students stay motivated, overcome challenges, and reach the milestone of graduation.

This year’s Gagashoan Recognition honored Mr. Bob Hendy for his 30 years of dedication to East Rochester students and athletes. Known for his fun-loving personality, supportive nature, and commitment to helping students succeed both in and out of the classroom, Mr. Hendy has made a lasting impact on generations of Bombers.

The celebration of Moving Up Day once again created lasting memories for East Rochester students while carrying forward a tradition nearly a century in the making. Thank you to our Student Council, Class Advisors, and MUD Coordinator for the hard work that goes into pulling off this annual event!

For event photos, click here to visit this photo album.