A giant ring protruded from the stage. Balloons shimmered under the dim lights of the auditorium. The students of the junior class of 2012 were officially given the title “upperclassmen.”

On the evening of January 5, about 250 eleventh graders walked across the stage to receive their Herff Jones class rings. While some students only see the rings as a piece of jewelry, others see them as something deeper.

“It shows that I accomplished my high school years,” junior Megan Martin said. “The ring means that high school is starting to come to an end.”

The junior class officers, including treasurer Monica Dyches, made speeches throughout the evening to discuss the significance and history of the rings.

“It signifies when we officially become upperclassmen, but also our strength and unity as a class,” Dyches said.  “There is no beginning or end- we’re friends for life from now to graduation, from graduation to life.”

While the full room of students, friends and family enjoyed a classic ceremony, hours of preparation went into the event. Members of student council helped organize the music, decorations, refreshments and programs.

“Herff Jones put it all together for us, and it’s a very nice event, so we’re very grateful for their help,” Activities Director Angela Felipe-Lima said. “This was actually the largest turnout, with kids and guests, we’ve had in at least nine years.”