In the movies, high school is portrayed as either one of two things: a cliche clash of classes, jocks vs. nerds; or a learning experience with unshakable bonds and unforgettable memories.
When it comes to making high school more like the latter, it falls into the hands of the individual.
It is important for both students and teachers alike to work and create an environment for everyone to enjoy their time in high school, whether it be just four years or many more on top of a degree (in the case of teachers).
From students’ opinions, school culture is being upheld in many ways.
“I think one way we have positive school culture is through state sendoffs. It allows recognition,” said Hannah Mathy, 11.
Mathy thinks that gathering the students helps show support for all kinds of extracurricular activities while recognizing the work that goes into it.
In these extracurriculars, students build communities, strengthening the school community and culture.
Not only students are present in their own social circles, but also teachers. They have many of their own groups and cultures as well.
“One way our school shows positive culture is through the continuation of our staff always being here. If you take a look from year to year, most of our staff is still here because we have established a culture professionally where we feel we can thrive and are supported,” said Hailey Bachura, history teacher.
It is important that this holds true all throughout the school, and Bachura believes that it plays a huge role in carrying onto the students and their interactions.
Whether you’re fourteen or forty, friends and experiences build who you are. In a place where you spend most of your time, it is important to find positivity in such an influential aspect of your life.
