But Middle Creek High School graduating seniors were happy to lead the jort-wearing phenomenon as a fun way to show support for a fellow schoolmate who was diagnosed with cancer.

This year's graduating class has really distinguished itself with its school spirit and leadership, said counselor Tara Middleton.

"Being a relatively new school it feels like this class had done a lot to cement some traditions," Middleton said of the 9-year-old school.

The seniors helped to sell more than 400 tickets and raise about $4,000 for the North Carolina chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society at the spring carnival. For the Class of 2011, the cause was close to their hearts. Boys varsity basketball coach David Kushner has multiple sclerosis.

"It definitely gave us more motivation," said student body President Rachel Gibson, a graduating senior. "It was a personal connection. We knew he would be there and we didn't want to disappoint him."

Seniors also took the lead with the pep squad, "Creek Crazies," setting up carpools to get fans to away games and wearing sports team gear on Mondays and Fridays. In support of junior Rashawn King, an athlete who was diagnosed with leukemia, seniors sold "Pray for Ray" T-shirts, wristbands and collected money during games to help his family pay medical bills. All students were happy to wear pink, jorts or all-white during basketball games to show their spirit and support for King.

"We're his family. Seniors felt that even if it might seem or look silly, it was important to do," Gibson said. "The senior class is kind of like 'big brothers' looking out for everyone."

With students commuting for as long as 45 minutes to get to school, from areas such as Fuquay-Varina, Raleigh, Holly Springs and Apex, Gibson said school spirit became a theme for the year.

"We have people coming from all over the place, not just close neighborhoods," Gibson said. "We wanted people to feel involved and feel like it's a community."