Senior Pranks: Should they continue?

This year, LAHS’ administration has cracked down on any pranks from graduating seniors, prompting new discussions about whether this controversial tradition should continue

Sydney Forsyte and Emma Hirotsu

May 23, 2025

“A few years ago, the senior class toilet papered the campus. I think that’s great, right? But, then, it’s a couple rotten apples spoil the whole bunch because a couple of other kids who started spray painting,” Mr. Bowen said. “It sort of stinks, because I get senior pranks are kind of a traditional thing to do, but because of a few kids who cause destruction, we’ve had to really crack down.”

LAHS

LOS ALAMITOS, Calif. — On Monday, May 19, the administration at Los Alamitos High School sent out an email and message in the school newsletter warning students that if any students participated in a senior prank, there would be severe consequences, including banning students from participating in senior activities like walking at graduation, Grad Night and more. In addition, the message warned that legal action and further disciplinary consequences could be undertaken.

In an attempt to further reduce the possibility of a prank that might damage school property or persons, the administration has also hired overnight security and requested regular patrols by law enforcement to deter students.

“They made T-shirts, probably 500 T shirts, and gave them out to all of the seniors. So funny,” Mr. Bowen said. (LAHS)

Some previous senior pranks have been relatively harmless. In 2007, students wore t-shirts with the Assistant Principal of Student Services and Attendance, Mr Bowen’s face and different puns involving his name, ranging from “Flamingo Phil” to “Phil Flintstone.”

“I’ve been here 21 years, and that was definitely my favorite of all time,” Mr. Bowen said.

At lunch, Mr. Bowen even went out behind the PAC to take a group photo with all of the creative seniors who participated in “Phil Friday.”

Unfortunately, not all previous senior pranks have been lighthearted and harmless. More than 25 years ago, hundreds of baby chicks were brought to the campus in a senior student’s car and let loose on campus. With the large number of students who walk around during passing periods and lunch, many were unfortunately stepped on and killed. Mrs. Franzen, a teacher who witnessed the prank, reports attempting to save one that had been stepped on, although it tragically died in her house later that day.

One student even sported a “Phree Philly” shirt, which Mr. Bowen reports was one of his favorite designs.

Pranks like these that can cause harm to school property, students, staff or animals have led the administration to take a far tougher stance this year in comparison to previous years.

“It bums me out that I have to crack down on it so hard. But at the same time, I have to balance the safety and security of students, staff and the school,” Mr. Bowen said.

The school’s message to students closed by requesting that LAHS seniors celebrate responsibly and leave behind a positive legacy.

“Thank you for helping us keep our campus safe, respectful, and worthy of celebration,” the LAHS administration said.

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