Welcome To The Pirate Way, Class of 2038

The Furry Elementary kindergarteners were formally welcomed into the Perkins family at a special Pirate Way Meet-Up with the PHS seniors in Firelands Health Stadium on Tuesday. 

“This is a very unique experience,” said Furry Elementary Principal Eric Kaman. “We have the oldest Perkins Pirates in the district, along with the youngest Perkins Pirates in the district, all together in one place. That’s pretty special.”

The meet-up was all about building connections as part of The Pirate Way, Perkins Schools' cultural initiative that challenges students and staff to Trust, Own, and Connect. 

The seniors greeted the kindergarteners as they stepped off buses and escorted them, one by one, into the middle of the stadium. There, they got acquainted and shared stories – seniors telling them about their experiences in school and the kindergarten students offering their impressions of what’s ahead in their school careers.

“If you look around, we have a lot of differences among us,” Mr. Kaman said. “But, we all share Perkins Pride; we are all Perkins Pirates. Seniors, you are showing our kindergarten students what it means to have Perkins Pride. We’re doing that by the connections we're making.”

PHS Assistant Principal Drew Davie welcomed the Class of 2038 to the stadium. “We are excited to have you here. It’s hard to believe, but in 10 years you will be in that building (Perkins High School).”

The senior members of the PHS cheer squad, as well as mascot Sir Rocco, led the students in the Pirate Rumble cheer. The students also took part in feverish rounds of Red Light-Green Light and Sharks and Minnows, and dancing to “Baby Shark,” “Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes,” and other familiar classics.

The event concluded with the seniors lining up on the 35-yard line facing the kindergarten students on the opposite 35-year, and then walking towards each other and meeting at the 50 for a group photo. 

Watch A Video Of The Event

Everyone seemed to have a good time.

“It was fantastic,” said senior Nate Jones. “I love my guy Lane. We had a perfect time. It was one of the best experiences I could have as a senior.” 

Senior Bri Bucher agreed. “It was fun to connect the oldest kids with the youngest kids. We don’t get to see them that often – it seems like they’re so far away.” 

And, in hopes of shortening the distance between Furry and PHS, more events with the seniors and kindergarten students are in the works. Stay tuned, Pirates.