Manchester High Class of 2012 Says 'So Long' in a YouTube Video

Inspired by a YouTube clip, students at created a video of their own that features more than 200 seniors dancing and lip-synching through a farewell tour of the school.

"We wanted to leave with a bang," said senior Paul Maloney, who directed the eight-minute video, which was first shown during a school-sponsored post-graduation party last Monday night and has since been generating YouTube traffic of its own.

Sarah Jones, a staff member at Manchester High, suggested the project after seeing a similar production done by Churchill High School in San Antonio, TX.

Maloney spearheaded the effort, with support from classmates in his broadcast journalism class.

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The students used a diagram of the school to chart a course that started at the main entrance and wound through hallways, courtyards, even up an elevator to the second floor. They then recruited seniors and assigned them to dance and otherwise entertain on separate sections of the course.

Filming was done after exams ended, following graduation rehearsal in the school auditorium.

Senior Carly Aducci carried the camera and Maloney a large boom box that blared songs by Earth, Wind and Fire. Teacher Eric Larson was also involved, using a bullhorn to offer instructions and directions. After a trial run-through, students made adjustments for the final version.

Maloney said he was happy with the result.

"The Class of 2012 has been through a lot," he said. "I wanted us to have a chance to leave our mark."

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