Bethel Park releases Senior Clap-Out schedule

Patrick Romito, Staff Writer

May 29, 2025

As the 2024-25 BPHS school year comes to an end, seniors are preparing for a tradition that symbolizes their transition into the adult world, the annual clap-out ceremony.

This event provides graduates, in cap and gown, with an opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments and say thank you to the schools that helped shape them as a person.

This walk-through, often called a “clap-out,” is a parade where students are cheered on by current students, staff, and community members.

It’s a moment to reflect on their past at Bethel Park and to inspire younger students with their success.

All BPHS seniors are invited to participate in the clap-out, regardless of which elementary school they attended.

Additionally, seniors who may have been to other elementary schools are welcome to walk through the school they would have attended, to encourage particaption amongst all.

The following is the list of dates and times for each school’s clap-out ceremony:

Abraham Lincoln Elementary: Tuesday, June 10 (2:00 p.m)
Benjamin Franklin Elementary: Wednesday, June 11 (1:30 p.m.)
George Washington Elementary: Wednesday, June 11 (2:00 p.m.)
Memorial Elementary: Tuesday, June 10 (2:00 p.m.)
William Penn Elementary: Tuesday, June 10 (1:15 p.m.)

This tradition is important for both seniors and elementary students. For seniors, it’s a chance to give back and act as role models for the next generation.

For elementary students, seeing their older students walk through the halls can be motivating, showing them what’s possible with hard work and determination.

Extra details of each specifc school’s clap-out are posted on the school district’s Instagram account.

The clap-out at Bethel Park and other district schools is more than just a walk, it’s a celebration of community and achievements.

It highlights the support of Bethel Park’s schools and demonstrates the importance of a strong educational system.

As BPHS seniors prepare to embark on their next chapter, this walk-through serves as a reminder of where they started and the support they received along the way.

It’s a fitting tribute to their journey and an inspiring send-off into the future.

About the Contributor

Patrick Romito, Staff Writer

And that’s another Bethel Park Black Hawks win for the boys soccer team. Whether Patrick is on the soccer field or behind the keyboard, he’s always aiming to make an impact—one play and one story at a time. This year, Patrick Romito, an 11th grader, joins Scholastic Publications for the first time. When asked why he decided to sign up, Patrick said, “I took the class to get more involved in school activities.” With a clear passion for making the most of his high school experience, Patrick is eager to contribute to the class by writing articles for the Hawk Eye newspaper. He’s ready to take on whatever stories come his way, whether spotlight features, sports, or school news. Patrick is not just a writer; he’s also an accomplished athlete. With 12 years of soccer experience under his belt and as a three-year DECA member, he balances both extracurriculars and academics with ease. As someone who enjoys variety, he’s equally open to different kinds of stories, saying, “I enjoy writing in general, so whether it’s spotlights, sports, or school news-related content, it doesn’t matter to me.” Looking ahead, Patrick’s plans after high school include studying marketing and advertising, although he’s still deciding on a specific college. In the meantime, his favorite class is Law & You with Mr. Vic. He appreciates how the course prepares him for life after high school, and he enjoys Mr. Vic’s real-life stories that make each lesson engaging. Reflecting on his time in high school, Patrick recalls the excitement of attending football games as a freshman, where he formed friendships that have lasted throughout his high school years. “I really enjoyed going to the football games freshman year because I ended up making a lot of friends there, a lot of which I’m still friends with today,” he said. Outside of school, Patrick has worked as a lifeguard at Highpoint Fitness for almost two years, a job that highlights his dedication and work ethic. When he’s not working or playing soccer, he enjoys comedy movies, with Step Brothers being his top pick. And what’s his dream vacation? Patrick hopes to one day visit Italy. “My dream vacation is Italy because first, it is very beautiful there, as well as my family roots going back to there,” he shared. In just three words, Patrick describes himself as calm, caring, and hardworking — qualities that are sure to serve him well both in and out of the classroom. Keep an eye out for Patrick’s contributions to Hawk Eye this year as he dives into the world of scholastic publications! Written by: Grace Ferency, Staff Writer