Girls’ J Bathrooms

Home of repeating mercury spills, floods and closures, the J bathrooms are unlike any other.  The black-and-white hexagon tile and radiators overhead are quick to remind you that this is still Lane Tech, despite the pale warmth. The quietness of these familiar stalls are the perfect spot for a moment of reflection—whether that be shedding a few tears after checking your ACT score or jumping with excitement when that boy finally makes a move (even if that means making eye contact for the first time in a week). The J bathrooms are elusive with their neverending closures, yet still full of emotion. 

The Writing Center

Walking into the Writing Center for an appointment as a freshman was terrifying. Returning the following year as a new tutor was equally daunting. This space, though, is also where I found some of my closest friends at Lane. There’s always much to do—from drawing on the windows to painting the walls. The conversations had here may not always be academic, but are full of ideas that would never be heard anywhere else. And it’s the perfect rainy day lunch spot, too; a couple large tables and a plethora of chairs rest between the cherished book nook. The Writing Center is full of life, always bright and airy. 

The Lawn

During an environmental science project, I learned that Lane is home to 350 trees. Now, not all of these trees grow on the lawn, but a good amount of them do. (Mostly) green grass and (mostly) living, luscious trees: Lane’s lawn is one of the picturesque places where you can spend hours. Sit outside and have lunch with your friends, or opt for an after school nap in the sun—as long as you aren’t scared of getting hit with a ball. Green space may be limited in the city, but is always in surplus on our lawn.

Guitar Room

For three years now, my friends have gathered on the couches on Room 154 before the 7:55 bell. And although I lack the knowledge of how to play anything on a guitar, the space is one of the most comfortable ones around Lane. Murals line the walls—some of which are actually garage doors—and for those who are musically inclined, a soundproofed room. Most of my mornings involve the dim light of that room, or maybe just the L-shaped couch for a quieter morning. I am incredibly grateful for the Guitar Room’s doors being open to my friends and me so early before school, even if we’ve gotten scolded for our too-loud morning performances.