What started as a conversation last year between two student leaders about school spirit has become a new tradition at Mahopac High School.
Senior Executive President Sofia Dealmeida and Junior Class President Luke Langtry had noticed seniors at other Hudson Valley schools painting parking spaces and began wondering if Mahopac could offer the same opportunity. They saw the idea as more than a chance to decorate a parking spot. It was an opportunity to bring students together, build school spirit and give seniors a way to leave their mark on the school.
Last March, Dealmeida and Langtry shared a petition across social media, generating significant support from students, families and community members.
From there, they took the idea a step further, presenting their idea to MHS Principal Patrick Keevins and working with him to determine what a similar program might look like at Mahopac. The students researched how other Hudson Valley school districts manage their senior parking space painting programs, gathering information about rules, costs and design approvals.
For Dealmeida and Langtry, the project became an opportunity to practice the kind of leadership that goes beyond having a good idea. They identified something they thought would benefit their school, developed a plan and presented their proposal to school leadership.
“Sofia and Luke did an incredible job taking an idea and turning it into a thoughtful and thorough presentation,” Keevins said. “They did their research, listened to different perspectives and came prepared with solutions. That kind of initiative is exactly what we want to see from our students.”
He said the finished parking spaces were equally impressive, with students bringing their own personalities and creativity to the project.
“Our seniors did an amazing job with their parking spots,” Keevins said. “Their talent and creativity really shined through.”
Both students shared compliments for Principal Keevins and the experience of working with him.
“It was a pleasure working with Mr. Keevins on this project,” Dealmeida said. “He really listened and made us feel like our voices mattered, and on top of that he was enthusiastic and dedicated to helping us make this happen.”
Langtry said Keevins’ approachability and willingness to support students made a significant difference throughout the process.
“Without him, this wouldn't have happened,” Langtry said. “Mr. Keevins always kept the best interest of the students and the school in mind, and we felt comfortable coming to him with our ideas.”
The new senior parking tradition is ultimately about much more than painted pavement. It is a reminder of what can happen when students are encouraged and supported to speak up, take an idea seriously and do the work to bring it to life.
