The unspoken social structure that defines popularity, influence, and inclusion among students. Present-day, with roots in decades of high school tradition. Conroe High School, mirroring trends seen nationwide. Students naturally form groups based on shared interests, values, and perceived status. Through social cues, peer interactions, and cultural influences like media and technology. This is occurring today, but its beginnings stretch generation after generation of high school life. While the actual behaviors of popularity and power have changed especially with social media the underlying system is much deeper rooted in tradition. It's a living system, changing to the times always while withholding echoes of the past.
From athletes to artists, gamers to activists, students find themselves sorted into groups that shape their high school experience. But who decides the pecking order—and is it changing?“Athletes would be the most powerful hierarchy in school because of how popular they are, their size and how loud they are.”- Junior Bryanna Molina said
Carbajal’s observation begs a deeper look at why this so-called “Edgar” group feels so ubiquitous—and how students outside of it perceive or interact with it. “The largest social group in the school is definitely every one in the Edgar category, our school is full of them like they're literally like everywhere.”- Junior Lesli Carbajal said
This idea brings into sharp focus how fragile belonging can be.“The smallest differences in behavior or appearance can lead to social isolation,” “Even without direct bullying, many students feel excluded simply because they don’t fit the mold” -Dr. Anthony Nelson
Written by: Braylen Ragen