The 2025-2026 school year has officially started. As we gradually adjust to the routine of classes, tests and homework, we’ve noticed these four back-to-school trends leading the pack. And if you aren’t already participating in these trends, this is your sign to start.
1. Water bottles: Back-to-school season has officially made water bottles the centerpiece of student survival. With this brutal heatwave making the school feel like an oven, staying hydrated is paramount. This year, it’s all about showing up prepared, so extract your Stanleys, Owalas and Hydro Flasks from the back of your cabinets, fill them up with water, and toss in a handful of ice cubes. The logic is simple: why hand over $3 for an overpriced Bevaris single-use bottle when the school fountains provide endless water for free? And as an added bonus? Those leftover ice cubes double as a crunchy snack. A day won’t go by that you don’t see someone clutching a multicolored water bottle on their way to class. As Addison Rae says, stay hydrated and say, “Hi, Drated!”
2. Dogs Out: And while we’re talking survival strategies, let’s get one thing straight: socks and shoes are officially cancelled. The dogs cannot be caged this season, and flip flops are the natural choice. They free your toes and let them breathe. But let’s address the elephant in the room: Socks with sandals? Outdated. Socks with Crocs? A crime against nature. This year’s mantra is simple: go big or go home. Embrace bare feet in your Birks, clogs and Crocs. Raw, unfiltered freedom is the only acceptable footwear vibe.
3. Lunchtime Music: Music on patios is officially back. Thrumming bass lines and fighting for aux have returned to Poly’s noontime theatrics––house music is in, and patios are turning into mini Coachella music festivals. Students are bringing speakers to their patios, becoming personal DJs that always know how to spin the mood in the right direction. But this begs the question…do you think you’ve got what it takes to headline lunch?
4. School Spirit: Embarrassment DOES NOT exist this year. Be yourself, loud and proud, and don’t hesitate to show off that Panther pride. The more spirit you show, the more fun you have. So cheer louder, paint your face bolder, and dance wilder in the stands. Word on the street? Coming to games actually makes you cooler. You didn’t hear it from me, though. Showing up together makes everything fun––why miss out? High school only comes around once, so join in with your classmates already filling Poly’s stands. Go all out, make some noise, and don’t be afraid to HAVE FUN!!!
