Actually, East Isn’t Beast: The “East is Beast” superiority complex blinds students from recognizing flaws and traps them in an unrealistic bubble of expected perfection

It was the last penalty kick. We knew we’d win. But the ball went just six inches too far left, missing the goal, losing the game. As we walked off in disappointment, the opposing team jeered the “goodbye” song, which only infuriated us more. Why would they tease us like that?

But let’s be honest: we would’ve done the exact same thing. 

When East loses a playoff game, it must’ve been the ref’s fault, not ours. Maybe it’ll make us feel better to insult the other team about where they live. Our drop in test scores? Probably just the COVID off-year. We’re still the smartest in the district — our boastful list of alumni at prestigious colleges says so.

Why? Because “East is beast” — we can do no wrong. At least, that’s become the widely accepted truth at our school.

What began as a joke to hype up East has morphed into an endorsed and toxic superiority complex that blinds the student body from recognizing its own flaws, mistakes and failures. 

In all areas of school spirit, students tend to take the “East is beast” mindset a step too far — in the past chanting “That’s alright, that’s OK, you will work for us one day” as a comeback to a game loss. And even a win comes with obnoxious, in-your-face celebration. 

In reality, East is not the best. Niche.com’s ranking of the best high schools in Kansas placed East in sixth, below all of the Blue Valley high schools. So why can’t we admit our flaws and areas for improvement? We cover up our own elitism by insulting others’ socioeconomic statuses or school controversies while refusing to acknowledge our own.

While our drive to be winners can motivate us to study longer, sweat harder and scream louder in the student section, there’s a fine line between desire and belief. It’s OK to strive for high achievement and encourage others to do the same, but don’t hide behind the “East is beast” motif or use it to undeservingly put others down.

By Niche’s rating scale, East received an “A” rating in academics, teachers, clubs and activities, sports and college prep, but it was diversity and resources and facilities that were rated a “B.” The blunt reality is that we’re not that special, we’re privileged. 

Sure, we study hard to score high on tests. But it’s easier to study with access to ample tutoring and prep classes. The numerous golf, tennis and swim state titles we’ve earned over the years compared to football and basketball shows how East athletes typically excel at sports they grew up playing in their country clubs — another privilege that’s rare outside of the East “bubble.”

Our advantages and access to resources are in many ways out of our control, but being trapped in this mentality of expecting success makes us look past our privilege and easy access to success.

If we were simply striving to be the best, it wouldn’t be a problem. It’s the arrogant mindset that we’re always the best that shields us from the reality that we can and should improve. Not only is it ignorant and damaging to our reputation as a school, but it forms a false reality for students.

Spending four formative years of high school believing that you automatically excel at everything — and blaming others when you don’t — sets up students for a culture shock when entering the real world, where others are just as talented but half as pretentious. If you consistently refuse to accept your weaknesses, whether as an individual or as a schoolwide culture, you’re building yourself a weak foundation.

Plus, whether it’s getting all fives on AP exams or placing as a National Merit Scholar, genuine achievements with students truly working for their success are often overshadowed by the disrespect and arrogance present in our school culture. 

Recognizing failure requires a change in perspective. So soak up the wins, pride yourself in high test scores and a school known to win, but accept losses with humility and recognize you’re not actually the best. It’s from your mistakes and flaws that you grow, by covering them up with a defensive “I’m still the best,” you’re only holding yourself back.