It all started with a group chat and now several Powell High School students call themselves “The Goober Squad.

This, in turn, has given rise to the “Goober Empire.”

The goal of the Squad is to bring awareness to some issues that are going on in the school, especially discrimination.

“We oppose bigotry against minorities, especially at the school,” junior Sawyer Mauthe said.

They believe in equal representation for everyone and that someone’s past or appearance should not define who they are.

“We are trying to represent everyone in the school and stand up to bigotry,” PHS junior Joe Rogers added.

The school awareness started with the spread of Rogers’ Snapchat code. He encouraged everyone to add him, but did not get as many as he hoped.

Students may be familiar with “Goober Lane,” which is the line of parking spots where the members of the Squad park their vehicles. It’s the line of spots closest to the sidewalk across from the football field. However, you must beware, because if you park there and you are not a Goober, you are subject to a parking violation and a fine of 925 Goober Bucks.

Goober Bucks are the Squad’s official currency.  The Squad has grown to eight  members and each has a depiction of their Snapchat Bitmoji’s on the Buck.

The Squad has become increasingly popular around school, with people posting pictures of their parking tickets.

Some of those people question why they do this.

“Why not?” Rogers said.

Overall, they hope to make a difference as Goobers and continue to expand their empire, stand up to bigotry and represent the quiet voices in our school.

“The Goober Squad represents the student body that doesn’t get representation in student council,” Rogers said.