Arlington Heights seniors take a trip down memory lane at Hersey High School

On Sept. 22, Hersey High School opened its doors to a special group of visitors during its annual Back to School Day, offering local seniors the chance to relive the high school experience alongside today’s students. The event, held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., was a resounding success, bringing together generations for a day filled with connection, learning, and fun.

Attendees were transported from the Arlington Heights Senior Center by school bus and greeted by staff and students from Hersey’s Service Over Self Club (S.O.S) upon arrival. The event kicked off with a personal welcome from Hersey High School’s S.O.S coordinator Mark Gunther and Principal, Dr. Heath McFaul, who shared insights into the school’s academic programs, student achievements, and community involvement.

Guests enjoyed guided tours of the campus, visited active classrooms, and observed students engaged in real-time learning — from science experiments to art projects and language lessons. Many senior center patrons expressed how impressed they were with the school’s modern facilities and the respectful, enthusiastic nature of the student body.

One of the event highlights was a complimentary lunch in the cafeteria, where guests dined alongside students, fostering meaningful intergenerational conversations and plenty of shared memories.

“This was such a wonderful experience,” said one attendee. “The students were so welcoming, and it was incredible to see how much has changed — and how much has stayed the same — since we were in school.”

The event not only offered a unique look into today’s high school environment, but also strengthened community ties and celebrated lifelong learning.

The Arlington Heights Senior Center extends its thanks to all the staff, students, and volunteers who made the event possible, and looks forward to hosting similar programs in the future.