The class of 2007-08 here in North Kitsap will be an interesting one for certain. With the advent of a new high school in Kingston next fall, a number of graduating seniors might be the first to do so as Buccaneers. A number of others, from the same class, will do so as Vikings.

Who will be doing what, at this point, is up in the air.

While the road to open Kingston High School has been a bumpy one — to say the least — those who will be most impacted, i.e. students, haven’t really spoken up on the issue as much as they should. The NKSD is in a very difficult situation regarding next year’s graduating seniors and as students at North begin to realize that even though they’ve been Vikes for three years and may suddenly be Bucs, it’s not likely to get any easier.

A good portion of students could be uprooted from their classes, teachers and friendships next year. This wouldn’t exactly be an easy transition for teenagers but, if deemed necessary, is one that the NKSD must ensure goes as smoothly as possible. The in-class aspect is just one of the hills the district must climb for the new high school. Sports and extracurricular activities will practically be mountains. Two high schools means more than just two separate buildings and two different student bodies. It also means new teams, new bands, new clubs and a host of other “new” issues that many aren’t even anticipating.

School officials and members of the Attendance Boundary Task Force are no doubt working overtime to address issues before they happen but it’s like trying to hold back the tide — problems will slip through. Students eyeing graduation in 2008 will likely have one of the more potent cases of “senioritis” on record. If the change goes through, even those who stay at North won’t be remaining in an environment they’re accustomed to. Kids they attended class, played soccer, band instruments, acted and passed the time with will be noticeably absent.

Of course, this all begs the question, “If not 2008, when?” When indeed. OK sophomores, it’s time to stand up and be heard. It’s your future after all.