The tradition of “The Rock” at Gainesville High School started in 1967 when construction crews were building the bypass around the high school.Since then, students, faculty, staff and anyone involved with the city have flocked to the landmark to celebrate achievements and mourn losses.Now, three more schools in the district will join the high school in that tradition: New Holland Core Knowledge Academy, Centennial Arts Academy and Gainesville Exploration Academy.“The rock is so traditional,” said Pam Wood, principal at New Holland. “Not only have we celebrated around the rock, we’ve also mourned around the rock. It’s a symbol of traditionalism.