Before walking the path on the North Allegheny football field to accept their diplomas June 5, graduates of the Class of 2026 paused to retrace another set of important steps as students: those into the halls of their childhood elementary schools.

Walk Back in Time, a beloved tradition of soon-to-be graduates during their last week of school, was held June 4.

Here’s a look at that experience at Hosack Elementary School as seniors revisited their first days as North Allegheny students.

“It’s so surreal,” said Dean Cammarata, 18, and a former Hosack student. “To be back with all of these people, it’s a really nice experience.”

With North Allegheny graduating a class of 640, which includes seven elementary schools, this was a unique opportunity to reconnect with their first set of friends. Teachers and students lined the halls and campuses, giving a heartfelt round of applause.

This is the fifth year the Walk Back in Time event has been held, according to high school Principal Matthew Buchak.

David Deramo, North Allegheny’s new superintendent, stopped by Hosack to greet the seniors the day ahead of graduation. He said they’re always welcome back to say ‘hello.’

“Hopefully, their experience as a North Allegheny Tiger has been rewarding and will prepare them to take the next step — wherever that will be,” Deramo said.

Parents, teachers and other staff gathered at each of the elementary schools, sharing hugs, memories and smiles.

Despite all of the years and students that filter through their classrooms, Hosack teacher Aaron Kokladas said teachers don’t forget.

“Every time you see a kid, there’s at least one memory of them,” he said.

Hosack fourth grade teacher Caterina Gabriel agreed.

“It reminds you of how much you love teaching kids,” she said.

Hosack fifth grader Swara Shukla, 11, was impressed, saying the experience was “like a walk back in time.”

“I am excited to be one of them one day,” added fifth grader Calista Hood, 11.

And it will be worth it, at least that’s the sentiment of North Allegheny grad and Hosack alumni Gabe Hernandez, 18.

“This is the coolest thing ever,” he said.