Traditions

Traditions and customs that have lasted undocumented for years.

## Acronyms

An easy guide to acronyms often found on campus:

* LLC - Living Learning Commons
* HSB - High School Building
* MAB - Music and Arts Building
* CPT - Center of Performance and Technology
* SAC - Student Activity Center (gym)
* CPS - College Planning Seminar
* CCC - College Counseling Center
* AGS - Associate's in General Studies
* SSS - Student Support Services
* KPK - Kristi Pope Key
* SGO - Student Government Organization
* SAB - Student Activity Board
* GSA - Gender and Sexuality Alliance
* BSU - Black Student Union
* AAA - Asian American Association
* HSDA - High School Democrats of America
* AIT - Artist In Training
* FSP - Future Scientist Program
* CAPA - Creative and Performing Arts
* LGBTQ - Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer

## Bohemian Rhapsody

At the end of every major dance (mainly Winter Formal and Prom), it is a tradition for students to gather in a big circle in the middle of the dance floor, hold hands, and sing along to Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody." The origin of this tradition is uncertain, but it has stood the test of time. Usually, the circle will stay structured throughout the first verses, then will dissolve into a violent mosh pit as Freddie Mercury sings, "So you think you can stop me and spit in my eye."

## Prudhomme's Christmas in September

Started by former student Collin Serigne, this yearly event is a winter holiday party held in September. Mariah Carey's Christmas music is traditionally blasted from a speaker while Prudhommites graze on frosted Wal-Mart cookies. Participants are encouraged to wear Christmas outfits (Santa hats, sweaters, etc.) and share off-season holiday joy. The last official party was held in 2019 by former student Brayden Kimbrough and former SLA Jim Wilson. The event symbolizes the camaraderie of Prudhomme (now Tower B), and is a display of merriment and good tidings before October, which is commonly referred to as Blood Month. The first Christmas in September held in the LLC was hosted by third-year senior Lyra Parker ('22) and occurred in the lobby kitchen, allowing AMABs and AFABs alike to eat $30 worth of Walmart cookies among other treats donated by students.

## Mating Season

When a child moves to LSMSA for the first time, they often feel stranded in a new environment. They look for comfort in the freedom the school provides them and, without the supervision of their parents, start dating other hormonal teenagers. This period of time, beginning at move-in and lasting until the Fall dance (formerly known as the Sadie Hawkins dance), consists of many first-years getting into a relationship that they are not emotionally ready for. Most Mating Season couples break up before the end of the first semester. If you find yourself dating someone within the first month of moving to LSMSA, consider yourself a victim of Mating Season.

## Blood Month

October is the month when LSMSA loses the most students. By this point in the semester, classes have reached their normal difficulty and it finally sets in that LSMSA is not a summer camp: it's a year-long academic and emotional commitment. Midterms crush grades for students who have yet to adapt to the new academic rigor, causing many to be pulled by their parents for making poor grades or voluntarily dropping out to return to the relative ease of their home school. There is no shame in dropping, especially during Blood Month, but remember that everyone at this school struggles with imposter syndrome and the teachers truly care about your success.

## Rodeo

When a new semester is about to start, the final time to make course adjustments is known as "Rodeo." Instructors gather to sign student's forms, and the rooms become very chaotic.

## Senior Seats

At the end of LSMSA's graduation ceremony, you will see many juniors running into the section of seats reserved for the newly graduated seniors. Often times, they will sprint to a specific seat held by their favorite senior. This process is premeditated. Seniors ask an underclassman to take their seat at graduation to symbolize the transition of power within the school. It is an honor to be given a senior's seat as it shows belief that the junior will excel in their future. Juniors should not ask for someone's seat, and they can only customarily hold one seat. If multiple seniors ask for the same junior, it is up to the junior to decide who's seat they will take. If a junior is not asked by any senior, they can still rush into the senior section at graduation, but they should avoid sitting down as to not accidently take someone's seat. This tradition holds a lot of sentiment, marking the moment when juniors become seniors and seniors become alumni. If you, as a junior, are asked to take a senior's seat, you are responsible for sharing their care for the school even when they leave.

## SLAMT

LSMSA is not the only school of its kind; many other residential high schools are scattered around the country. Some of our neighboring schools come to face us in a Triwizard-esque sports tournament called SLAMT (Schools in Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Texas). SLAMT is a great opportunity to meet new, bright students from our sister schools, and trash-talk them to no end. Out of every school participating in SLAMT, the Arkansas School of Math, Science, and the Arts is easily our favorite. Eagle + Cyber-dolphin solidarity!

## Special Projects Week

Upon returning from the month-long winter break, students do not immediately start their spring courses. The first week back is dedicated to Special Projects, small courses hosted by faculty on niche topics that they are passionate about. Famous Special Projects include Mr. Theriot's Dungeons and Dragons, Dr. Tichenor's Chariot Racing, and Dr. Bankston's Philosophy in Sci-Fi. The Benners' project is also notorious for never attracting any students. While being a graduation requirement, these projects are not graded in any way. They are intended to be a fun way to ease back into the school schedule after winter break.

## Blue and Gold Week

After classes end for the spring semester, everyone is focused on preparing for finals. The activities during Blue and Gold week offer ways to get away from studying. Many seniors will present their distinction and capstone projects during this week, along with concerts, Spring Fling (basically field day), and other events.