Common School Reunions: 5-Year or 10-Year?

High schools typically organize reunions at specific intervals to allow their former students to reconnect and relive memories from their teenage years. These reunions can occur at various frequencies, with the most common being at 5-year and 10-year intervals. However, the exact timing of these reunions can vary, influenced by the alumni's interest, school traditions, and available resources.

Typical Reunion Frequency

High schools often plan reunions to take place every five years, followed by the more celebrated 10-year reunion. This cadence serves to balance the need for regular touchpoints with the desire for these events to be significant and impactful. Additionally, larger intervals such as 15, 20, and beyond are often planned to mark milestones or to coincide with anniversaries of significant events, such as the founding of the school itself.

10-Year Reunion: The Most Common Milestone

The 10-year reunion is widely celebrated because it marks a substantial passage of time, enough for the attendees to see each other in a new light, reflect on personal transformations, and potentially establish stronger bonds. This reunion is cherished not only by the alumni but also by the school itself, which uses it as an opportunity to showcase the progress of their former students and to reconnect with the community. Galas, seminars, and special events often feature prominent speakers, award ceremonies, and networking opportunities, making the 10-year reunion a grand affair.

5-Year Reunions: Less Frequent but Still Appreciated

While 5-year reunions are less frequent than their 10-year counterparts, they hold a special place in the hearts of alumni. These reunions provide a mid-point check-in, allowing former students to catch up on each other's lives and to reminisce about the good and bad times spent together. These smaller gatherings can be more intimate and personal, often organized by a small group of committed alumni. Despite their lower frequency, they are significant milestones in their own right and are appreciated by those who attend.

Personal Reflection: My High School Reunion Experience

My high school class has a tradition of holding reunions every five years. This September will mark our eighth in the grand tradition of the 40-year reunion. This event is significant not just because of its duration, but also because it represents the culmination of decades of separation and return. In my experience, attending about half of these reunions, I have seen the power of such events in bringing people together. Each reunion provides a unique opportunity to revisit memories, explore new ones, and forge deeper connections with former classmates.

Conclusion

While the frequency of high school reunions can vary, the 5-year reunion and the 10-year reunion are the most common and widely appreciated milestones. These events serve as a bridge between the past and the present, allowing alumni to stay connected and to rekindle their friendships. Whether held every five or ten years, these reunions provide a valuable sense of community and continuity, enriching the lives of those who participate.