Grand Island Schools Hold Second Annual “Passing of the Viking Torch” Ceremony

The Grand Island Central School District held a heartwarming tradition that bridges generations of Vikings. The second annual “Passing of the Viking Torch” ceremony took place on the high school football field, where high school seniors and kindergartners met in the middle of the field for a symbolic exchange celebrating connection, pride, and belonging.

During the ceremony, Grand Island High School seniors presented each kindergartner with two meaningful gifts — a beaded bracelet that reads “You Matter” and a Viking pennant. The moment captured the essence of the district’s mission: engagement, belonging, and empowerment--every student, every day. 

Among the many touching moments on the field was the special bond between senior Sienna Sarkees and her younger sister, kindergartner Julianna Massaro. The two met at midfield as part of the ceremony — one completing her final year in Grand Island schools, the other just beginning hers. Their exchange embodied the event’s message of connection and continuity, showing how the Viking spirit truly runs through families and across generations.

What began just last year has quickly become one of the district’s most cherished traditions. For the seniors, it’s a moment to reflect on how far they’ve come since their own kindergarten days; for the kindergartners, it’s an early glimpse into the future and the Viking legacy they’re now part of.

A Message of Reflection and Belonging

High School Principal Hillary Kretz-Harvey said the event represents much more than a symbolic passing of the torch.

“Our Passing of the Viking Torch event is a true full-circle moment for our seniors,” Kretz-Harvey said. “It’s a time for them to pause and reflect on their journey — from the very first day of kindergarten to the final stretch of their senior year. It also reminds our youngest Vikings that they are part of something bigger — a community that values and believes in them.”