Brunswick High seniors revisit their elementary school ahead of graduation

BRUNSWICK — Brunswick High School seniors took a walk down memory lane by visiting the elementary school they once attended while dressed in their caps and gowns. At Hickory Ridge Elementary School on Wednesday, students, staff and parents clapped as each senior revealed their plans for after graduation. Many students said they were going to college, while others were planning to enter a trade and some said they were unsure what the future holds for them. "These are some amazing things that these students are doing," Hickory Ridge Principal Jamie Bailey said. "We know that they have embarked on such an amazing journey here at Brunswick City Schools." Senior Ella Huston will attend Bowling Green University and study early childhood education while Theerthaa Krishnan will study psychology on a prelaw track at the Ohio State University. The pair became best friends while attending Hickory Ridge and then continued their friendship at Visintainer Middle School and Brunswick High School. Krishnan said they wanted to come back to Hickory Ridge because of the memories. "Coming back here and seeing the seats that we used to sit in, in the exact same classrooms, it's like oh my God, we were once there, and so much has changed," she said. "You don't realize how fast the years go by." The elementary school students gave high fives to the seniors while they walked past during Wednesday's event. Teachers also could celebrate their former students. "The staff and faculty are so welcoming and so joyous," Huston said. "(There is) an energy when you walk through those doors. It's unbeatable, and it's amazing." Brunswick High School will host its commencement at 7 p.m. today at the Brunswick Auto Mart stadium. "It's surreal," Huston said. "I can't believe it's actually happening because I remember being in fifth grade and thinking 2024 is so long away, and now it's here." Contact reporter Madisyn Woodring at (330) 721-4049 or mwoodring@medina-gazette.com.