HUNGRY SENIORS at IHS

Indiana Area Senior High School

By JENNY TODD

With the changes recently in regards to Covid-19 safety plans by IASD, the Class of 2022 seniors of IHS are now allowed to sit in the upper commons and the excitement is in the air.

For many years, IHS seniors always had the opportunity to eat lunch in the upper commons in an area called “Senior Cafe”, however, the past year and a half this has not been possible due to COVID restrictions.

Seniors are thankful for an opportunity like this and for being able to have something special like this. Things are finally returning to somewhat normal and seniors are finally getting the opportunity to experience some of the things that were taken from them at the beginning of the year.

When talking about the new seating protocol no student was upset by this decision. Fox VanLeer said “I think that it was important because being a senior should come with extra perks like having our own seating area.” Fox also talked about how being able to sit next to and converse with his friends has changed his mood completely. He said things like “I can talk to more of my friends at once.”

One main effect of COVID has been communication. Communication has been lost in the school. The six feet mandate has brought students to stay to themselves which has resulted in less relaxing time and more work for students.

Another thing that was brought up was an alternative seating arrangement, such as maybe outside on nice days. Michael Wood said, “It would be great to have the option to sit outside”. The option of sitting outside would allow students to be even closer and feel safer in their environment.

Anna Margita had a lot to say about the seating options to start Anna said, “ I absolutely love the space that is just for seniors. It allows us to have more quality time together before we all move away. Even after two years of being separated, it feels so good to be together again with our class that are now seniors!!! But at the same time, I love seeing everyone in the school and feeling the school community in the lunchroom.” Anna also added that “I have felt a major difference in my mood throughout the day by being able to sit and talk with some of my closest friends. Even when it is a hard day, having that time to hangout throughout lunch and having fun is really great.” Lastly when asked about sitting outside Anna said, “ Outdoor seating sounds like an absolute blast!!!!! I feel that since we have been cooped up for the past 2 years, having that freedom for seniors would be an absolute blast, especially since it is our last year.

This is by far my favorite lunch option! I love the freedom and being able to sit with as many of my friends as I want!” Hearing students speak about the new lunch seating with so much energy and positivity has made the school a brighter place.

Seniors are soon to leave IHS but the class of 2022 has definitely had an impact and deserved this seating arrangement.

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