In a surprising change to the traditional first day of school entrance, the Senior class of 2024-2025 at Fort Lauderdale High School entered on the first day carrying children’s backpacks. There is a wide range of bags, from superheroes to unicorns to Minions, all distributed throughout the school halls. This new trend has sparked contrasting opinions: “Are the Senior Children’s Backpacks Funny or Tacky?” 

Many FLHS students find the childhood items to be sentimental.

“I enjoy having a Spongebob backpack.  It’s very nostalgic, being I used to watch cartoons growing up,” Jacob Curtis (12) said. “Now I can relate with other students with the same interest.” 

Another student, Alyssa Pearlman (12) shared,“I wanted to participate because it’s my last year being a kid. It was only $10 and something [my friends and I] can do together.” 

Teachers also agree with this trend. Drama and AICE Media Studies teacher Chrystina Marchionne said, “I love that the seniors are bringing back their childhood.”

United States Government and Economics teacher Barbara Segal, whose classroom is filled with the light hearted backpacks, added. “ I think they are very cute, but I hope they can fit their assignments in them.”

However, not every student is on board; some students even argue the backpacks are distracting or not convenient.

“They just aren’t practical,” said Sofia Dicampli, a senior this year who refused the trend. “It’s a waste of money for something to break and not last the whole year.” 

Several seniors may not participate in the children’s backpacks out of convenience, but that does not mean they completely rule out the idea. According to the FLHS senior class, 84% believe this backpack trend is funny whether or not they participate. 

Anton Frongillo (12), despite not having a children’s backpack, believes, “It adds humor to the atmosphere, especially with the stress of senior year. You can’t pretend to be an adult too early. Don’t throw your childhood years away too fast.” 

Whether the backpacks are seen as a humorous tradition or just plain tacky, it’s clear they’ve made an impact on the school community.