As an upperclassman in Ottawa, Kansas, I believe that prom should be a special occasion reserved solely for us. This is not just another dance or social event; it's a milestone in our high school journey and a celebration of our impending graduation. It's personal to me because this is our prom and for it to be special to us upperclassmen.

According to the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), many schools across the United States have already adopted policies restricting prom attendance to juniors and seniors. This practice helps maintain the significance of this event as a rite of passage for older students nearing the end of their high school careers.

By allowing underclassmen to attend, we dilute this tradition and rob upperclassmen of an experience that should be unique to them. We are not trying to exclude younger students out of spite; rather, we want them too, when their time comes, to enjoy this special moment without dilution or distraction.

We urge Ottawa High School administration and staff members who have influence over these decisions - please consider making prom exclusive for juniors and seniors only. Let us preserve the sanctity of this important event in our lives. Please sign this petition if you agree with preserving traditions that make moments like these truly memorable.