I’m the editor-in-chief of The Crystal, Lakeview High School’s newspaper, and I wanted to bring attention to something that a lot of seniors care about. Last year, I had the chance to talk with our superintendent about the tradition of seniors painting their parking spots. Unfortunately, while schools around us, like Harper Creek High School and Pennfield High School, still allow seniors to do this, Lakeview decided to stop the tradition.

The reason we were given was that taxpayers had put a lot of money into resurfacing our parking lot. While we obviously appreciate the work that was put into improving our school, it’s frustrating that a new parking lot has to mean giving up a tradition that so many students look forward to.

Painting senior parking spots is about more than just painting a piece of asphalt. It gives seniors a way to show their personality, get creative, and make memories during their last year of high school. It also adds school spirit and gives students something fun to look forward to. Paying $25 for a senior parking pass without being able to paint our spots also feels unfair, especially when there are asphalt-safe paints that can be used without damaging the parking lot.

We think there could be a compromise. The school could approve the types of paint and designs that are allowed, and seniors could be given specific spots or areas that can be repainted each year. This would allow us to keep the tradition while also protecting the new parking lot.

Senior year is full of traditions and memories that we only get to experience once. We’re asking Lakeview High School to reconsider the decision and bring back senior parking spot painting.

If you support bringing this tradition back, please sign this petition. Let’s give the senior class a chance to show their creativity, school spirit, and individuality before we graduate!