At Presbyterian Christian School, traditions help shape the heart and culture of our community—and few are sweeter than the beloved 12 Year Club Donut Tradition.

It all began in 1999, when PCS celebrated its first graduating class. To honor the students who had been part of the school family from 1st through 12th grade, the administration created the 12 Year Club. As a token of appreciation and recognition, each member of the inaugural club received a dozen donuts.

What started as a thoughtful gesture soon turned into a cherished tradition. When Beth Darby (now Gaither), the Class of 1999 President, returned the following year to speak at the Class of 2000’s graduation, she shared a story that would spark a legacy: she had saved one donut from her dozen. That donut was ceremoniously passed down to a senior in the Class of 2000—and so, the tradition of passing the donut began.

Since then, each year, one graduating senior who has been at PCS for all 12 years is chosen to receive the donut, symbolizing continuity, loyalty, and the lasting bonds formed at PCS.

This year, the Class of 2025’s recipient of the treasured donut is Ramsey Middleton, chosen by Ford Benton of the Class of 2024. Although Ford was unable to attend in person, Mr. Scott Griffith, former Elementary Principal, proudly passed the donut to Ramsey on his behalf.

More than just a fun tradition, the 12 Year Club and its donut legacy serve as a reminder of the deep roots many students plant here at PCS—a place where education, faith, and friendship grow year after year.