“It’s crazy to think back on all the other seniors from previous years, and now it’s us doing it.” On Monday, June 8th, seniors ceremonially gathered their homework and tossed it from the library in a bittersweet goodbye to Tosa West. Over 200 students participated, throwing thousands of papers from the library. “It was a fun experience and I’m happy I could take part,” says senior Isabel Taormina.

The students began accumulating around the balcony before 3pm. Getting a good spot is imperative for participants, as accommodating the hundreds of future graduates can be difficult. Below, spectators crowded in the learning center, eager to see the papers fall. 

“This is always such a great way to end the year,” says senior Anayah Foster-Aune. “It’s always fun seeing how much paper we collect throughout the school year.”

The official toss time was 3:10pm, when the final bell rang. Both students and faculty cheered as stacks of homework, assignments, and note sheets were thrown from the balcony. Despite the mess, the senior paper toss is one of Tosa West’s biggest traditions. “[It is] such a free experience,” explains Foster-Aune. 

Although the tradition is meant for seniors, it is still an important marking of the end of the school year. “I thought it was really cool to see every senior come together and have a fun farewell,” says junior William Kell. He was one of many students who were excused from class at 3:05 to watch the toss. “I am excited to do it next year.”