Senior traditions ranging from senior pranks to senior skip days are deeply ingrained in the culture of Camas High School (CHS). Some of these traditions have roots that date back decades, if not longer. Senior Skip Day, for example, dates back to the 1930s.​ The release of Ferris Bueller’s Day Off in 1986 served as a catalyst, skyrocketing the popularity of the tradition in the 80s and 90s. Senior Skip Day remains popular among this year’s graduating class. 

“Senior skip day and the senior prank are the top senior traditions for me,” CHS senior Dalila Drugovic said. “They are something that we all look forward to towards the end of the year.”

“I’m really looking forward to senior skip day this year. I honestly wish every day could be senior skip day. We all really need a break,” CHS senior Kenyon Thompson said.

Like skip day, senior pranks have been an ongoing tradition for almost a century, dating back to the 1930s and possibly even further. In medieval European universities, students would engage in pranks and mischief to mark the end of their studies. While generally harmless, senior pranks sometimes involve more controversial actions, like vandalism or property damage. Overall, most see them as a fun and harmless tradition that acts as a way for students to make their mark before graduation. 

More recent traditions, such as the senior sunrise, have also gained popularity at CHS. The first senior sunrise took place in 2004 and has since grown into an annual tradition at many other high schools across the country. Witnessing the sunrise together fosters a sense of unity among the graduating class, symbolizing the beginning of their final year of high school.

“I really like the senior sunset tradition,” CHS teacher Rob Kankelberg said. “I’m also always a big fan of the painting of the rock at the stadium.”

Painting the rock at the Doc Harris stadium serves as a lasting legacy for every graduating class. Each time the town gathers for a football game at the stadium, they pass by the senior rock. 

“I like the senior parking spots. When they first opened the school they had assigned spots, so I think they should expand this,” Matt Loop, a teacher at CHS said. “If you are a senior it would be so nice to have your own spot and not have to worry.”

This new tradition at CHS offers seniors the ability to personalize and decorate their own designated parking spot in the north parking lot. They can display their individual tastes and interests, while also not having to worry about parking spots running out. This saves seniors the stress of having to make it to school early, while also providing a fun way to celebrate their final year of high school.