Editor’s note: This is the first of many editions of “Thumbs,” mini-staff opinions pertaining to items happening around campus.  

UP: Paint the spot

Next year some seniors will be able to reserve parking spots and some will even get to paint them. Other schools in the district have had priority senior parking in the past, and we are finally able to have it as well. We have been unable to have priority parking in the past due to construction and poor parking arrangements. Painting parking spots and reserved spots will promote more school spirit and allow seniors to feel more like seniors.

DOWN: Do the AP shuffle

AP tests. AAAAHHHH! Stress! Panic! Timed Essays! All these things are facing those that are taking the AP tests over a two week period. Even those not taking the test that day have had to deal with classroom relocation with the AP testers taking up classrooms on the third floor.

UP: Heating up lunch

We can now bring ramen noodles, leftovers from the night before, or our favorite lasagna without having to eat it cold, because there is now a microwave available to students, located in front of the cafeteria stage. In the past we have had multiple microwaves in the building, but students were never permitted to use them. In the past, this has restricted students who bring their lunch because it has to consist of foods that can be eaten cold. Thanks to StuCo for making it hot.

DOWN: Driving us nuts

The buses are a great source of transportation for students, however they can’t fully be appreciated due to the issue of them being overcrowded. This is the case with shuttle and regular buses at any time of the day. Students often arrive late to class because they have to wait for another bus to arrive due to the previous bus being full. Solving the problem with overcrowded buses will allow students both to get to class on time and to fully appreciate their use.

UP: Show you care

In case you missed the memo, this past week was teacher appreciation week. But it doesn’t have to be an official week for you to show your teachers that you care. Make a card, buy flowers or say a simple “thank you” to all your teachers. It may brighten a teacher’s day by acknowledging all their hard work in teaching us every day. Teaching isn’t the easiest job in the world, and sometimes teachers and advisors need a bit of encouragement just like students do.  Even if they aren’t your favorite teacher, it still will make a difference. And who knows, they might act nicer.

DOWN: Bipolar A/C

This past week in the school, it has been a 50/50 shot on whether to dress for the slopes or the beach. The second floor is a sauna while the first is colder than a meat locker. Wear a longsleeve shirt and you can be a genius for one class, but a fool in the next. We suggest layering clothes and bringing a jacket, until the air conditioning system makes up its mind. Remember it is possible to always put on more clothes, but you’re is limited to the amount you can remove.