Welcome Senior Class of 2025!

Update 5/1/2025

Senior Graduation Information

Graduation Rehearsals (2) – Mandatory to be able to walk

Date: Monday May 12th

Location: BRHS Baseball Field

Time: 2:30pm - 4:00pm

Parking: Student Parking Lot

Date: Tuesday May 13th

Location: BRHS Baseball Field

Time: 10:00am-12:30pm (Senior Bash Immediately after-cap and gown pick up)

Parking: Student Parking Lot

Make sure to sign in during rehearsals, so you get credit. Remember these are mandatory and if you do not sign in the assumption is that you were not there, which could put you in jeopardy of walking. Please make sure to sign in.

Cap and Gown Pick up at Senior Bash

Date: Tuesday, May 13, 2025

Distribution will be done by Alpha - Counselors. You will be given time to pick up.

Time: 12:30pm – 2:30pm

Location: Football Stadium

Parking: Student Parking Lot Only

Enter: Through EVOLV at the Football Gates

Graduation Day

Date: Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Time: 7:30pm (starting promptly)

Student Arrival Time (Mandatory): 6:15pm

Doors Open to Guests with a Ticket Only: 6:30pm

Concession will be open – but are cashless.

Ticket Info: 10 Tickets for Each Student (We will not be selling tickets at the gate, and we do not have extra tickets, one single-use ticket is required per person, children 3 and under who can sit on your lap, will not require a ticket. General Admission for all guests; there are no reserved or assigned seats).

Guest Parking: Parking is free if you park in Pirates parking lots and Rogers Gardens Elementary. Outside businesses and individuals will be charging to park if you would prefer. No guests are allowed to park in the player's parking lot, only staff, volunteers, administration and some graduates who must drive themselves, but space is limited. Drop off will be in the player parking lot area, but parents dropping off must continue to leave the parking lot and park in the approved areas.

CARPOOLING IS HIGHLY ENCOURAGED AS THERE IS LIMITED PARKING AVAILABLE.

Items NOT ALLOWED: No custom graduation stoles or flags (only approved stoles and cords given by the school can be worn). All items are subject to search. They will use the Security Metal Detection system and clear bag policy per LECOM. No balloons, air horns, confetti, etc. admitted to the stadium.

Guest Limitations: Guests are only allowed in designated areas that include stands, directly behind the stands and guest restrooms. Guests are not allowed to be in the "Student Staging and Waiting Area". Any guests in this area will be asked to move out of this area. Guests are asked to take pictures outside the stadium as we have to clear the stadium immediately after graduation. Once the ceremony is over, guests are asked to leave the stadium and wait for their graduates outside the stadium. No guests are allowed on the field. Any guests violating these limitations may be asked to leave the stadium.

FAQ

1. Bag policy when entering LECOM park?

Advertise to parents/guests that they should not bring in any medium or large size bags. Small bags only (4” x 6” or smaller). They may also bring closed bottles of water, hand sanitizer and photography equipment.

2. Do children need a ticket? If not, age limit cutoff?

Children 3 and under who can sit on your lap, will not require a ticket.

Graduate Limitations: No heals of any kind on the field. Please make sure to wear flats or platform-style shoes. Do not leave trash at your seat and take your items with you. No recording and taking photos while waiting to walk, reserve your videos and pictures for the staging and waiting area before and after walking. All students must keep their name card to ensure their name is read correctly when approaching the counselors at the podium. Once you have walked across, you must immediately return to your seat. No noisemakers, no grand displays, no personal items (such as hats, sunglasses, flags or personal stoles) are to be worn when walking across to receive diploma.

Update 4/28/2025

Seniors- This week is ALL ABOUT YOU! Here is our Senior Spirit Week information- be sure to come by at lunch each day to show that you are partaking in that day's theme, play games and BINGO, eat outside, and grab a snack of the day (to fit the theme). If you dress up each day, be sure to put your name in at lunch or send me an email with a picture showing you dressed up. We will be having a drawing at the end of the week for different prizes: Graduation Tickets, Senior Gear, extra C/O 25 items, etc. Have fun with your last week before exams- only 9 days of regular classes after today:) 

For Senior Spirit Week- Each day will be themed:

Each day bring any BRHS shirt or any shirt you have and have your peers and underclassmen sign it (pens will be brought in by each student- there will be NO signing on each other and NO inappropriate comments, images, jokes, dialogue, etc. will be allowed).

Monday- Make it Happen Monday- Dress up in what you would like to be when you grow- what will you major in (NO PROPS will be allowed though, this includes but is not limited to: Dr props, lawyer props, policeman, fireman, etc.). APPROPRIATE CAREERS WILL BE WORN ONLY. All School dress code will still apply, this includes but is not limited to leggings, pants with tears, short shorts/skirts, no tank tops allowed.

Tuesday- Tradition Tuesday- dress up in the T-shirt, hoodie, or jacket of the college you will be going to (or Military, Vocational School, or what post-secondary options you like). School spirit items are okay to bring in (similar to dress up for Friday fan days at games. All School dress code will still apply, this includes but is not limited to leggings, pants with tears, short shorts/skirts, no tank tops allowed.

Wednesday- Wacky Wednesday- Dress up in NEON or MISMATCHED clothing. All School dress code will still apply, this includes but is not limited to leggings, pants with tears, short shorts/skirts, no tank tops allowed.

Thursday- Throwback Thursday- Dress up in your “Elementary School Fit” what you wore as an Elementary Schooler (bring the picture that you have to match it). All School dress code will still apply, this includes but is not limited to leggings, pants with tears, short shorts/skirts, no tank tops allowed.

Friday- Finally Done Friday- Wear your Seniors T-shirt or Hoodie. All School dress code will still apply, this includes but is not limited to leggings, pants with tears, short shorts/skirts, no tank tops allowed.

If you need anything, please let me know. Let's make your LAST week the BEST! 

Update 4/10/2025

Reminders:

Seniors, as a reminder, IF you have FLVS courses that are graduation requirements, for Bright Futures (or any FLVS coursework), it is due by May 1^st.

Please note the remaining testing opportunities for passing state assessments for graduation standards.

-CLT: This Thursday, April 10^th, 7:30 am

-FAST: May 1^st, 7:30 am

-FAST May 5^th or 6^th, 7:30 am

Update 3/14/2025

PROM 2025 Information

Date: April 17th

Time: 6pm - 10:00pm

Location: Hyatt Regency (Sarasota)

Dress Code, Code of Conduct and FAQ's

Guest Form - Must be filled out for all guests including 9th and 10th grade BRHS students. If you purchase your guests ticket before getting this form approved and for some reason your guest is denied, there are no refunds.

Purchase Tickets Here

Ticket Prices:

3/14/2025 - 3/28/2025: Early Bird Special $80

3/31/2025-4/4/2025: $90

4/7/25 - 4/17/25: Full Price $100

Tickets are limited and once they are sold ticket sales will be closed.

Update 2/18/2025

Update 2/4/2025

SENIORS- Graduation is in 3 months and 10 days from today- Wednesday, May 14th- OMG!!! The Senior Advisory Board is in the process of collecting photos from YOU to display on the megatron before graduation. This is what we need: TWO Photos of YOU- ONE from Senior year and ONE from your childhood (usually baby to 5th grade). We also would like to include ONE photo of a group of friends that you may have had forever- be sure to say who is in the photo with you. We do have some requirements for all of these photos: 1. Be sure you are covered in the photo- no swimsuits or small clothing that may show things off. 2. No tongues sticking out. 3. No signs with your fingers or arms made. 

We are wanting EVERY senior to submit at least the first two pictures (Senior year and one childhood one) by Monday, April 7th. Again, these photos will be on the JumboTron before Graduation. Be sure yours is included:) Please email me- rouser@manateeschools.net or via Schoology with your pictures. I will cross you off of the main list upon receipt of the photos. Thank you so much for your time! Have a great day, Mrs. Rouse

Braden River High School: Cap & Gown Portraits Are Here!

2025 Seniors, Parents and Guardians, Cap & Gown portraits and exclusive products are now available to view and purchase through CADY! Celebrate this achievement with new offerings like tassel frames, yard signs, mugs, and more. Deadline to order your items to receive them by Graduation is Thursday, April 3rd. Click the link below to view & order now! 

www.cady.com/capgown25

Update 11/12/2024

Are you still interested in purchasing a Senior Ad for the yearbook?

The deadline is 11/22/24

Click here to download the form

Update 10/14/2024

Next Tuesday- 10/29, we are having a Senior Spirit Day. What does this mean- it will be the first event for seniors this year and all about them.  The Seniors and us will be decked out in College/University attire- from their head to their toes if they choose too. 

HOWEVER, I need your help: if you can help me with just monitoring the seniors at the breakfast (be here by 6:55 AM at the Football Stadium= I know so early- but I thank you😉) and just monitoring them in-between classes and even coming out to lunch to monitor or play them that would be great. Please let me know if you can help out with the breakfast so I can get a head count of who is helping. 

We will be starting with a Sunrise Breakfast (7 AM for Seniors) in the Football Stadium. During this event, seniors will be having "breakfast", signing a Commitment to Graduate Banner, writing letters to themselves to be opened up during the Senior Picnic at the end of the year, having photo opportunities, and finally they will be "beaded" for their entrance into a school day senior game of "Rock, Paper, Scissors." The game will start at the Sunrise Breakfast, continue throughout the day- during class changes, at lunch, and IF YOU ALLOW IT in your classroom. SENIORS ONLY will have a certain color bead, and then you- Teachers, Admin, & Staff will have different color beads. The seniors will play against each other or you - IF THERE ARE BEADS AROUND THEIR NECK STILL- and the winner gets the beads (no matter how many there are).

During 7^th period, there will be an announcement to allow seniors out of class (about 15 minutes early) to go to the courtyard where they will either watch or compete in the final rounds of the "Rock, Paper, Scissors" competition, until this is just ONE winner. That winner will play the FINAL game against Mr. Butler for his very prized beads. 

I know this seems like a lot, but I think the Seniors will love it and HOPE You do too! I will be placing beads in your mailbox when they come in- if you want to participate AWESOME, if not, you will get a nice bead necklace😉 Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns. This is our first event of the year for just our Seniors, and we want it to be amazing. 

I hope you all have an amazing night. Thank you so much for all of your time and help that you give our students and the Class of 2025. You all ROCK!

Take care, 

Becky Rouse

Update 10/13/2024

Please congratulate your new Leaders for the Class of 2025:

President- Sophia Begani

VP- Gael Maldonado Pastrana

Secretary: Madeline Griffin

Public Relations Officer: Sara Vresoski

Senior Swag Co-Chairs: Emma Faller & Lawson Ling

Spirit, Events, and Privileges Co-Chairs: Hien Cao & Madison Liberty Parker

Graduation Committee C-Chairs: Natalie Orcutt & Carly Stella

SCF Liaisons: Emma Faller & Haylee Hogan

MTC Liaison: AJ Peters

Update 9/18/2024

Seniors- Class of 2025 – HELLO

The senior fee has opened and it is on our Braden River High School website- go to this link: https://manateeschools.revtrak.net/high-schools/braden-river-hs/#/list and click on Senior Fees. The fee is $125 (currently) and covers so much- graduation costs (cap/gown/tassel/medallion diploma/diploma cover, security, etc.), senior hoodie, senior t-shirt, senior lanyard, senior week events, senior picnic and events, and other events throughout the year.

Grad Bash tickets will be going on sale soon. The cost is yet to be determined but it will cover the transportation costs (to and from Universal) as well as the ticket for Grad Bash starting at 4:30 PM until 2:00 AM.
I know that Senior year can be both exciting and stressful. Here are some tips to help you manage stress and make the most of your final year:

1. Stay Organized
• Use a Planner: Keep track of assignments, deadlines, and important dates.
• Set Priorities: Focus on what’s most important and tackle tasks in order of priority.
2. Manage Your Time
• Create a Schedule: Allocate specific times for studying, extracurricular activities, and relaxation.
• Avoid Procrastination: Break tasks into smaller, manageable chunks and start early.

3. Take Care of Your Health
• Get Enough Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
• Eat Well: Maintain a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Exercise Regularly: Physical activity can reduce stress and improve your mood.

4. Stay Connected
• Talk to Friends and Family: Share your feelings and seek support when needed.
• Join Clubs or Groups: Engage in activities that interest you and provide a break from academic stress.

5. Practice Relaxation Techniques
• Mindfulness and Meditation: Spend a few minutes each day practicing mindfulness or meditation.
• Deep Breathing Exercises: Take deep breaths to calm your mind and reduce anxiety.

6. Seek Help When Needed
• Talk to a Counselor or trusted adult: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out to a school counselor or an adult you trust.
• Tutoring and Academic Support: Utilize resources available at your school to help with challenging subjects.

7. Stay Positive
• Set Realistic Goals: Aim for achievable goals and celebrate your progress.
• Focus on the Present: Try not to worry too much about the future and enjoy your senior year experiences.

Remember, it’s important to find a balance that works for you. If you ever feel too stressed, take a step back and give yourself a break. You’ve got this! Please let me know if you need anything. I am here for you.

Have an amazing day!
Mrs. Rebecca Rouse
BRHS Senior Advisor

Update 9/5/24

Dear Senior Class of 2025,

Congratulations on reaching your final year of high school! As you prepare for the next exciting chapter of your academic journey, it’s important to understand the Self-Reported Student Academic Record (SSAR) and how to accurately report your grades.

What is SSAR?

The SSAR is a system that allows you to self-report your high school courses and grades directly to participating colleges and universities. This means you can enter your grades online instead of having your school send official transcripts during the initial application process. It’s crucial to report your grades exactly as they appear on your high school transcript to ensure accuracy.

How to Complete the SSAR:

Gather Your Transcript: Have a copy of your high school transcript on hand. This will help you enter your grades accurately.
Enter Your Courses and Grades: List all courses and grades from 9th through 12th grade. For senior year courses that are in progress, mark them as “In-Progress.”
Do Not Convert Grades: Enter your grades exactly as they appear on your transcript. Do not apply weight or convert it into another format.

Understanding Grade Values:
When entering your grades, it’s important to understand the different grade values and how they are represented:

A+: Excellent performance, typically a score of 97-100.
A: Very good performance, usually a score of 93-96.
A-: Good performance, generally a score of 90-92.
B+: Above average performance, typically a score of 87-89.
B: Average performance, usually a score of 83-86.
B-: Slightly below average performance, generally a score of 80-82.
C+: Satisfactory performance, typically a score of 77-79.
C: Acceptable performance, usually a score of 73-76.
C-: Marginally acceptable performance, generally a score of 70-72.
D+: Below average performance, typically a score of 67-69.
D: Poor performance, usually a score of 63-66.
D-: Very poor performance, generally a score of 60-62.
F: Failing performance, typically a score below 60.

Most all colleges/Universities want the SSAR completed, however, verify it with the institution. I know that The University of Central Florida (UCF) has their own way of verifying grades, and this is done through their SPARK (Self-Provided Academic Record for Knights) form. The form is available on the student portal AFTER creating a Future Knight Portal account. The SPARK form is used in lieu of an official high school transcript (as is the SSAR). Upon enrollment acceptance, your SPARK Form and/or SSAR will be authenticated using a final official transcript from high school (and college if applicable).

By understanding and accurately reporting your grades, you can ensure that your SSAR and/or your SPARK Form reflects your academic achievements correctly. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to Mrs. Schrier-Simmons (College/Career Advisor), or your school counselor (last name A-F= Swann; G-M= Kelly; N-V= Lawlor; W-Z= Lengacher). Best of luck with your college applications and your final year of high school!

Remember, Progress Reports are NEXT WEEK (9/11/24) so be sure your grades are where YOU want them to be. Stay on top of your assignments and grades!

You Got This,

Mrs. Rebecca Rouse
BRHS Senior Advisor

Update 9/4/24

CADY is WHERE YOU GET YOUR YEARBOOK PICTURE TAKEN FOR. CADY will be here tomorrow for senior pictures- NEED TO SCHEDULE ASAP. You need to logon to https://www.cady.com. Scroll Down to Lets Get Started; Scroll down to Schedule Now, find your school (Braden River High)- click and continue; then pick your scenes ***IF YOU ARE DOING PICTURES HERE AT BRHS YOU WILL NEED TO SCROLL DOWN TO THE SCENES THAT ARE FOR THE SCHOOL AND PICK ONE OR BOTH OF THE SCENES. If you are doing the pictures at the CADY Studios location in TAMPA, then you can choose ANY of the scenes that are provided at their studios.***  Once you have picked your scenes, you will need to go to the next page and pick your package. If you are planning on purchasing pictures from CADY, you will choose any of them, IF you are only wanting your pictures done for the yearbook/cap & gown, then scroll down to the Simple session and you will need to pay $29 for it= select your package and then hit continue to finalize; Go through the different options and either upgrade or hit No Thank You and then CONTINUE to Schedule; 

IF YOU ARE DOING IT AT SCHOOL-WE HAVE ONE TOMORROW 9/6/24 AVAILABLE YOU WILL HAVE TO SCHEDULE IT ASAP!  THE NEXT ONE HERE AT BRHS IS NOVEMBER 8TH. 

If you are NOT doing them at BRHS the location of Cady is: 4899 W Waters Ave- Suite F & G; Tampa, FL 33634. 

THE LAST DAY TO BE PHOTOGRAPHED FOR THE YEARBOOK IS 12/31/24! Don't be left out of your Senior Yearbook! SCHEDULE YOUR PICTURES TODAY!

Hope this helps:) Mrs. Rouse

Update 8/29/2024

Dear Parents and Guardians of the Class of 2025,

We are excited to announce that the graduation ceremony for our seniors will be held on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at 7:30 PM in LECOM park. If the date and time were to change, we would let you know as soon as possible, however, this is what we have down for our Class of 2025 graduation. This is a momentous occasion, and we look forward to celebrating the achievements of our students with you. The Senior Fee tab on our BRHS website should be opening very soon. The fee is $125 and will cover graduation costs, cap/gown/tassel, diploma and diploma cover, senior shirt, senior hoodie, senior lanyard, and certain senior events.

Grad Bash is set for Friday, April 4, 2025- more about this amazing night will be coming soon,

Prom is set for Thursday, April 17, 2025- more information will be coming later in the year.

As we approach this significant milestone, we also want to remind you of some important deadlines and events for the fall semester that are crucial for your child’s transition to college:

College Application Deadlines:

Early Decision/Early Action: Typically, due by November 1, 2024.

Regular Decision: Varies by institution, but generally due by December 1, 2024. However, many schools do have rolling admissions.

FAFSA Submission:

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opens on October 1, 2024. We encourage you to complete this as soon as possible to maximize your financial aid opportunities.

College Visits and Interviews:

Many colleges offer open houses and interview opportunities throughout the fall. Be sure to check the specific dates and register in advance. Also, if your student is going to be visiting a college during the school day, please have them stop by Student Services to get a form to fill out so the absence is excused.

SAT/ACT Testing:

If your child plans to retake the SAT or ACT, the fall test dates are crucial. The registration deadlines are typically a month before the test dates, so please plan accordingly.

Scholarship Applications:

Many scholarship applications are due in the fall. Encourage your child to research and apply for scholarships early.

We understand that this is a busy and sometimes stressful time for both students and parents. I am available to assist with any questions or concerns you may have regarding the college application process, as well as our College & Career Advisor Mrs. Schrier, and our wonderful counselors.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership. We look forward to celebrating the accomplishments of the Class of 2025 with you.

Warm regards,

Mrs. Rebecca Rouse

Senior Advisor @Braden River High School

Update 8/7/2024

Dear Senior Class of 2025,

Welcome back! As you step into your final year of high school, we are thrilled to see you return with renewed energy and enthusiasm. This year marks a significant milestone in your academic journey, and we are excited to support you every step of the way.

Over the past years, you have grown, learned, and achieved so much. Now, as seniors, you have the opportunity to lead by example, inspire your peers, and leave a lasting legacy. This year will be filled with memorable moments, from senior projects and college applications to prom and graduation. Embrace each experience with an open heart and a determined spirit.

Remember, this is your time to shine. Take advantage of the opportunities that come your way, and don’t hesitate to seek guidance from your teachers, counselors, and mentors. They are here to help you succeed and reach your full potential.

As you embark on this final chapter, keep in mind the importance of balance. While academics are crucial, make sure to also cherish the friendships and experiences that make high school special. Participate in activities, support one another, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

We are incredibly proud of each and every one of you. Your hard work, dedication, and resilience have brought you to this point, and we have no doubt that you will continue to achieve great things. Let’s make this year unforgettable!

Here’s a comprehensive checklist to help the senior class of 2025 stay on track this fall:

Senior Class of 2025 Fall Checklist

1. Finalize College List:

• Narrow down your list of potential colleges.
• Schedule campus visits if possible.
• Attend college fairs and information sessions.

·  College Applications:

• Complete and submit college applications.
• Write and refine your personal statement and essays.
• Request letters of recommendation from teachers and mentors.
• Ensure all application materials are submitted before deadlines.

·  Standardized Tests:

• Register for and take the SAT/ACT if you haven’t already.
• Send your scores to colleges.

·  Financial Aid:

• Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) as soon as it opens.
• Research and apply for scholarships.
• Attend financial aid workshops if available.

·  Academic Responsibilities:

• Maintain strong grades and stay focused on your coursework.
• Meet with your guidance counselor to ensure you are on track for graduation.
• Consider taking Advanced Placement (AP) or dual enrollment courses for college credit.

·  Extracurricular Activities:

• Continue participating in clubs, sports, and other activities.
• Take on leadership roles if possible.
• Document your involvement and achievements for your resume.

·  Senior Year Events:

• Plan and participate in senior year activities and traditions.
• Pay your Senior Fee so that we can order your cap and gown for graduation. Link will go live soon.
• Schedule senior portraits.
• Open House- (Get your schedules)- TOMORROW 8/8/24 6:15 PM- 7:30 PM
• Grad Bash is set for FRIDAY, APRIL 4, 2025
• Prom date THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2025
• Graduation date – May 2025- TBD
• Seniors- send me a message with what YOU would like to see happen this school year (what privileges do you want??) rouser@manateeschools.net

·  Health and Well-being:

• Manage stress by maintaining a healthy balance between school, activities, and personal time.
• Seek support from friends, family, or counselors if needed.

·  Career Planning:

• Explore potential career paths and related college majors.
• Attend career fairs and networking events.
• Update your resume and LinkedIn profile.

·  Miscellaneous:

• Stay organized with a planner or digital calendar.
• Keep track of important deadlines and events.
• Stay informed about any changes or updates from your school or colleges.

This checklist should help you stay organized and make the most of your senior year. Best of luck to the Class of 2025! 🎓

We have a NEW College and Career Advisor- Mrs. Lauren Schrier-Simmons😊 She will be working with you this year to make sure that you are college and career ready! Be sure to welcome her!

Welcome back, seniors. Let’s make the Class of 2025 the best yet!

Update 7/23/2024

Class of 2025

Senior Handbook - Everything You Need to Know!

Senior Photos - Book your Photos Now

Use the following link to set up your Senior Photos - https://store.cady.com/booking/scenes?schoolid=701 

Senior Fees for the Class of 2025 - Coming Soon!

Graduation Date for Class of 2025 Seniors - Coming Soon!

Prom - April 17, 2025

Class of 2024 Senior Sponsor:

 Mrs. Rebecca Rouse

Rouser@manateeschools.net

941-751-8230 ext. 31076

Room 605