Tuesday, September 3rd, the first day back after a lengthy summer break, saw students returning to a dramatically renovated school from the one they left on the last Friday in May.
The view to the left of the new front entrance in late May 2024
Building front in late April, 2024
Building front on September 10, 2024
From the moment students arrived, the changes were striking. The school’s entrance now featured a polished and welcoming appearance with freshly paved roads, newly planted trees, and a vibrant display of student photos highlighting various clubs and sports.
Inside, the cafeteria showcased a trendy “unfinished chic” look with concrete floors and wooden accents, while a number of classrooms were outfitted with new carpeting, lighting, and stark white walls. However, the renovation also introduced a more clinical and sterile atmosphere, with bright lights and large glass windows in hallways that some students felt gave the school a hospital-like feel.
Similar Scenes from 2023-2024:
The physical changes extended to the school’s policies and faculty. Four new teachers joined the staff to replace teachers taking a leave of absence, retiring, or moving to other districts: Mr. Ahmed Affenah (Math) replaced Mr. Jackson, Mr. Derek Johncour and Ms. Maaike Hartmann (Science) replaced Mr. Shoats and the position covered by Ms. Dewitt long term after the retirement of Mr. Tena, and Mr. Cory Neville (Music) replaced Mr. Guess. New policies included mandatory fluorescent lighting in classrooms and no usage of lamps or alternative lighting, as well as a ban on personal appliances like microwaves and coffee makers due to updated insurance regulations. A revamped Wellness Policy also added restrictions on when teachers could allow food in the classroom, Additionally, open mod spaces intended for flexible use were not yet accessible to students, who spent these periods in the library or cafeteria.
Students experienced a range of emotions on their first day. For many, the day was a blend of excitement and nerves. Freshmen faced the typical jitters of starting high school, while upperclassmen adjusted to the new building layout and changes in routine. Seniors felt the bittersweet weight of their final year, and sophomores and juniors grappled with finding classes throughout the newly built hallways. Despite the initial disorientation, the day was generally manageable, with students finding comfort in familiar faces and classes.
The new option for expanded offerings of 40-minute MOD classes, a significant departure from previous years, added a sense of urgency for many throughout the day. The shorter length of classes that cover complicated material introduces another stressful element to the already difficult workload. Students, teachers, and staff are navigating the transition with a mix of enthusiasm and trepidation, ready to embrace the opportunities and challenges of the new school year.
Many students are working on their ability to balance their new workloads, as well as find the motivation to complete work after the extended summer vacation through all of August.
Photos and reporting by students in 1st semester Journalism 1: Grace Bechtold, Greta Christof, Elle Clarke, Will Fowler, Ella Ging, Dylan Hendrick, Brune Jimenez-Corsetti (studying abroad from France), Harmony Karwoski, Paxon Masters, Ava Monkelis, Olivia Monkelis, Laney Myers, Sally Nalevanko, Isabelle Pecosh, Sienna Schwartz, Elena Van Mater, Sadie Walsh, and Tria Witul.