Mr. Butler announced Jan. 12 that next year’s senior class will not have the option to paint reserved spaces, a longstanding tradition. The decision was met with social media backlash and a change.org petititon that has been signed by over 1,600 students, parents and alumni.

Despite frustration from students and parents, banning the decorating of senior spots is a sensible decision because of the unpleasant appearance and potential consequences that go along with painting. If the signatures are enough to overturn the decision, administrators should make sure that spaces are well-kept and maintained.

Sprucing up spots may keep the parking lot blue and gold, but these adornments don’t last long. Before the second semester ended, painted spots significantly peeled, leaving large blotches of exposed concrete. The alleged decorating left senior spots looking ragged and woofed.

On top of being a major eyesore, the peeled paint can have environmental repercussions. Paint chips can easily harm animals and pollute ecosystems such as those found in and around Town Lake.

While seniors can’t paint their spots, they can still reserve them. A guaranteed spot near the building is an essential perk for many seniors, and this option will still be available next year.

If the decision is overturned because of the petition, rules should be instated to prevent the current issues.

Of these potential requirements, stronger paint is the most important. Mandating the use of highly resistant paints, which are made for driveways and garages, would prevent  chipping and ensure longevity of designs.

Despite the ban, administrators still recognize the importance of tradition in relation to McKinney High School’s character and are brainstorming ways that seniors can continue representing the school with personalized flair.

The district-wide decision to end the painting of senior spaces is a logical move as these spaces provide threats to campus appearance and surrounding areas. But if administrators reverse their decision, students and staff should work together to maintain the appearance of our campus.

If the paint peels on this tradition, let’s start priming a new one.