By Luis Mila

MLEC’s class of 2020 returned to this new school year to face a new type of competition; not one of academic achievements, or advanced placement, but one of who can make the most phenomenal crown and get the most attention. 

Like years prior, Senior Crowning has accumulated less and less hype, and every turnout – no matter any hopes for the contrary – always proves how jaded the senior classes become. 

“I thought our class had so much spirit since everyone would go all out in pep rallies or Spirit Week, yet, now that we’re seniors and should be the most spirited, barely anyone shared their crowns or pride on the first day,” said Natalia Reboredo, MLEC’s Senior Class President. 

A rally for all seniors to come together, to take pride, to show spirit, and bask in the revelation of finally being a senior – the class of 2020 doesn’t exactly know everything that’s entailed in that.

“Now that the class of 2019 is gone, school feels more vacant than it ever has. Administration is pressing down on us, not letting us switch into classes because they’re supposedly ‘full’,” said Nicole Hernandez, a senior in the Health Science Academy. 

“We watched every senior class before us have all these fun activities. But, now that it’s our turn, it feels like nothing new, more school work piled on us like always. It’s difficult to feel excited and have school spirit in an environment geared to make us feel miserable.” 

It’s clear to see that not only are seniors fatigued from all the work piled on them, but also the administration that counterbalances the jubilance and pizzazz of graduation looming around the corner.

Due to a comparison bias within the senior class itself, everyone worked so hard to be the best: getting straight A’s, applying to summer programs, doing dual enrollment. Once we’re burnt out, this energy comes back in a new way – those who participate in senior crowning are comparing themselves to who has the best crown now.

“It’s honestly just about which crown’s the prettiest at this point. I don’t care about showing off that I’m a senior, I just wanted to bring my crown since I made it look nice,” said Jacque Beckford, a senior in the Health Science Academy. 

As it’s meant to celebrate maturity, growth, and marks the first steps towards graduation; Senior Crowning is overshadowed by the existential dread of still being stuck in school, with ways to go before rest.

Senior Crowning, the week-long tradition, that has ended like many others – dead.