The cloud of ash over the UK that stops people flying anywhere. (on planes, although that would be awesome.) From the volcanic explosion in Iceland? I guess it's not big news over there...
:O The teachers scheduled so many tests that day to keep seniors in school. We were sitting in class when the teacher suddenly warned the senior in the class; "Oh, and if you're not here on the 20th, you won't get to make up the test."
iDunno. I thought it was a nationwide thing. Seniors are certainly celebrated here; the sophomores are warned to be patient and sensible towards them during college-freak-out semester, effort during second semester is optional for them, and they have Senior Prank Day (which changes around), Senior Ditch Day, and Senior Day, when they are taken on a field trip.