We, the members of the Class of 2026, are petitioning to respectfully express our objection regarding the newly proposed schedule changes for our upcoming senior year. This new schedule, which may be used to incorporate a study hall, strips away our long standing privilege that we, as students, have looked forward to since freshman year, that being early dismissal.

A large population of our junior class relies heavily on the school bus service and would be required to arrive early regardless. Many students also struggle to get rides in the morning, especially those with younger siblings who are not seniors or siblings who attend the grade school. The schedule change may further complicate this situation for many students.

Additionally, many students have jobs, internships or family obligations to tend to. The early dismissal helps to accommodate these responsibilities and supports effective time management. This newly proposed schedule will significantly hinder these opportunities.

As underclassmen, seeing seniors leave early has been seen as a symbolic privilege, one that we have anticipated for years. It is seen as a reward for the hard work that we have all put in over the last three years. With it being withdrawn, it weakens our morale and senior spirit.

Late arrival, instead of early dismissal, could additionally limit seniors' ability to participate in activities that were reserved for them previously, such as morning announcements.

Finally, we recognize that the actions of the previous classes possibly influenced this decision. However, we respectfully ask not to be judged by their behavior. Our class is different, and we deserve the opportunity to earn and uphold our privileges. As it currently stands, our class already has very few senior specific privileges remaining. Taking away early dismissal adds to the growing perception that our efforts, maturity and seniority are not being acknowledged or respected.