The “Necessary Evil” of the New Study Hall Policy

Skipping study hall has been a common trend among high school students. For many, having their lunch period cut short to study may seem boring.

Throughout the years, the school’s administration has been attempting to reduce the number of students who skip.

This year, the administration unveiled a policy seeking to reduce study hall skippings.

While students expressed skepticism of the new rule, evidence shows that it may be working.

Although the school could not provide hard data showing that students are attending study hall in greater numbers this year, some teachers, such as English teacher Randy Gingrich, have seen an improvement.

“The attendance is a little bit better,” said Gingrich.

Many students expressed concern about the new rule. Although they said the new rule was effective, several students said they are irritated because they must go to study hall if they would like to exempt their finals.

“If it counts [against my exemptions], I have no other choice,” said junior Alizeh Subhani.

Like Gingrich, science teacher Kathryn Paxton said she has noticed more people attending her study hall.

“It’s very effective,” said Paxton. “Unfortunately it was a necessary evil.”