(DO NOT DONATE, donations do not go to me they just get directly donated to the website)
The 8th grade year at Progress Village is a significant milestone, and like many students, I have been eagerly looking forward to celebrating this special time with the traditional banquet and clap out. These events are more than just ceremonies; they symbolize the culmination of our middle school journey and are deeply cherished by the students, parents, and faculty alike.

Unfortunately, the decision to replace these long-standing traditions with an "Outsider's Day" and "clap in" does not resonate with the spirit and expectations we've set for this crucial year. For me and countless others, the banquet and clap out were events we had been anticipating for years, and they mark a rite of passage we've all been eagerly awaiting. Furthermore, many families, including mine, have already committed considerable time and resources into preparing for these specific occasions.

The banquet is an opportunity for us to come together one last time as a class, to celebrate our achievements, reflect on the memories we've created, and say our goodbyes in a manner befitting our journey. The clap out, on the other hand, is a community event that allows our teachers and fellow students from other grades to share in this momentous occasion, showing support and encouraging us as we transition to high school.

Preserving these traditions is not just about nostalgia; it's about honoring the efforts of students who have worked hard and deserve to experience these meaningful rites of passage. While changes can be innovative, replacing the banquet and clap out with alternatives that don't hold the same emotional or cultural impact is not the answer.

We believe that with enough support from the PV community, we can convince the school administration to reinstate these wonderful traditions. Let's bring back the joy, excitement, and sense of community that truly defines our 8th grade year at Progress Village. Sign this petition and help us restore the beloved 8th grade banquet and clap out!