High school graduation marks a significant milestone, a celebration of years of dedication, perseverance, and academic achievements. For students at Shrewsbury High School, walking the stage with cords and stoles around their garments is a representation of their hard work and accomplishments over the years. Unfortunately, it is difficult to determine if they will continue to be shown during graduation despite its reinstatement by the class of 2025.

Although the school believes that all students should celebrate as a whole instead of the individual, their accomplishments should still not be neglected. Cords symbolize the countless hours students have spent dedicating themselves to clubs, communities, and academic excellence. They represent the diverse talents and achievements of our senior classes, highlighting accomplishments in areas such as honor societies, service organizations, and leadership roles.

Some students may feel as if they are outshined by a fellow classmate who has a variety of cords if they don't have as many or even have none. However, by discontinuing cords, we risk erasing a symbol of achievement and pride that students deserve after four tireless years of high school.

We urge the Shrewsbury High School administration to ensure the tradition of granting graduation cords for all future senior classes. Students deserve visible recognition for their achievements, providing both a drive for excellence and a mark of their success.

This petition is a call to action for parents, students, alumni, educators, and community members in Shrewsbury to come together in support of making graduation the most memorable moment in our teenage years. Show the school administration how much these symbols mean to our students and  families.

Sign this petition to ensure that every future Shrewsbury High School graduate receives the recognition they have worked so hard for. Join in starting a meaningful tradition that honors and celebrates student achievement on a day they will cherish forever.