Many students walk past the Counseling office on their way to lunch as this route is often quicker than taking the central stairway near the elevator. With only 20 minutes (plus five minutes on either end to get to and from the cafeteria) eating can seem like a marathon. “You have to manage [your time] way too closely to be able to eat, especially for the younger grades. The lines get so long that they have like 10 minutes to eat lunch,” said Senior Tristan Morris.

Standing in a lunch line is an iconic part of being a high schooler. Each line offers a different meal option which is written on the windows next to the lines. Entrees and sides change daily, featuring burgers, fries, taco salads, chicken wings, soft pretzels, green beans, and corn. Regular items like chicken sandwiches and PB&Js are also available. ”We serve approximately 750-800 students a day. In October we served 15,500 lunches and 5,680 breakfasts,” said Cafeteria Manager Sheri Casero.

Some students like to take advantage of sunny days and eat their lunch outside at the picnic tables. “I love being able to sit outside. It’s quieter and I just like it better,” said Senior Zoie Deane. One frustration for students is that the doors that lead back inside are usually locked, making it challenging at times to get back in the building. “Sometimes you have to run after the door before it closes behind you or wait outside until someone opens the door. Sometimes I’m late to class because of that,” said Senior JJ Orengo.

You’ll find most seniors in the senior lounge as it’s a privilege they’ve earned from being the leaders in the school. Occasionally, younger students will sneak their way in by sitting with their senior friends. A popular item in the lounge is the microwave, which tends to have its own line for students wanting to heat up items that they have brought from home. “I never use the microwave because it doesn’t seem like they get cleaned much,” said Senior Saige Miller.

During the last few minutes of lunch, students tend to wait en mass for the bell to end lunch. Some students say that having to wait for the bell is annoying as the crowds can take up a whole hallway, resulting in a lot of bumping and shoving. “It’s an inconvenience for those who go through there and are going the opposite direction,” said Senior Olivia Carter-Johnston.