Class of 2023 adds their names to storied rock wall

A new generation has added their names to Steel Valley's storied rock wall.

Members of the Class of 2023 painted their names to the cliffside on West Run Road in Munhall on Wednesday, May 31 prior to commencement. Their names joined those of the Class of 2022, who added their names last year in a revival of a tradition that dates back decades.

Alumni recalled that seniors traditionally painted the wall as part of the festivities during homecoming week. For one reason or another, the tradition went dormant in the early 2000s until its recent revival. But as the students let fly with their spray paint, passing cars honked their horns and passers-by shouted congratulations to the seniors.

Though the tradition had gone quiet, it seems to have lived on in the memories of the Steel Valley community.

"When I was growing up, my parents always said they hoped that someone would bring it back when I graduated," senior Kendall McConnell said. "They're very excited to see this back again."

Patrick Dolan of Heavy Tree Service, a Steel Valley alum, generously donated his time and equipment to clear out brush and overgrown trees along the edge of the road to make the rock wall more visible and accessible. Guided by Kim Farrah and Christie Hurd, mothers to seniors Brooke Farrah and Nolan Hurd, approximately 40 members of the Class of 2023 picked out spots on the wall to add their names.

"I think it's something that should always carry on. I think it's very important," senior Brendan Snyder said. "I think it's pretty cool. I think it's something that's different."

Some settled for initials. Some let their creativity fly. A few scrambled higher up the wall, while others preferred the slightly firmer footing at the base of the wall. No matter their design or choice of location, each student left their mark.

"It means a lot to me. I'm glad we could leave our mark here," senior Madison Blasko said. "I'm really honored that I got to be part of the Steel Valley School District for 12 years. I'm just glad we could leave our names so everyone knows who we are - we're the Class of 2023!"

Keep your eyes peeled for more thoughts from the Class of 2023 on adding their names to the rock wall, as well as some reflections from Steel Valley alumni on the history of the wall.

If alumni have photos and/or memories from painting the rock wall in the past, the district would love to hear from you. Please email communications@steelvalleysd.org with a copy of the photos, your name, the year you graduated, and any memories you may have. Someone will respond and potentially follow up for more information.