To the right to the right, everybody walk and talk to the right. It sounds like a song. But it is in fact just one part of the new program being used at the high school this year
Staying to the right in the halls, catch and release are just part of the Spirit Teamwork Accountability Responsibility Scholarship(STARS) program. Next there are one-way hallways, no standing areas and signs indicating those zones. There are more teachers outside of their rooms instead of in front of their desks during passing periods. While there has been a lot of moaning and groaning, you have to admit that for the first time in years, the high school is becoming a better place for students and faculty because the system is working.
Beginning this year things that once were common about the high school are now different. There’s no going up the stairs the same direction everyone’s going down. There’s no leaning against the walls to chat with a friend or stopping for an extended hug until the bell rings. This has made a drastic difference in the congestion of the hallw with over 4,000 people using the hall during passing periods.
Teachers are making sure students are following through with dress code. They are out in the hall checking code and making sure students are moving swiftly down the hall the right direction. This has resulted in less whistles and a more positive student attitude.
The program’s goal is to help students become more responsible, and to help the organization of the school. It is working because now there is a better flow of traffic, more friendly relationships between teachers and students and the referral rate in the first week of school went from 200 last year to less than 100 this year.
Yes It seems annoying. It seems pretty down right outrageous. But there’s an obvious change, and the change is definitely good.
Let’s be honest, the students are being shown how to be leaders by their teachers. Everyone is learning control and respect with the new program. While a few are having a hard time catching on, the school 2010-11 year shaping up to be a symbol of peace and unity.