To promote open dialogue and create a more inclusive and enjoyable learning environment, students at our school have voiced their opinions on changes they’d like to see implemented. Here’s a snapshot of their concerns and suggestions: 

Kayden on the Dress Code: 

One of the most discussed topics is the school dress code. Kayden Minnix (11), a passionate student, pointed out the gender-based discrepancies that she sees. “Dress code, it’s sexist,” she stated. “Men get to wear a bunch of things that are ‘provocative,’ but women don’t.” This raised concerns about fairness and the need for a dress code that applies equally to all students. 

A big thing in the school’s dress code is crop tops and short shorts. There have been many female students who have been pulled aside in the halls because a sliver of their stomachs were showing, In past years, from the 2004 school year to the 2022-2023 school year, many girls struggled with feeling like they were being personally violated or judged, by teachers, for the articles of their clothing. Some were getting in trouble for their shirts slightly lifting when they stretched because their midriffs were showing.  

The short shorts rule was enforced, but only with the female students. Male students, especially the athletes, were wearing shorts and rolling them up until they couldn’t rise anymore. Not only did many girls admit that this made them uncomfortable and distracted, but the boys were getting away with it. 

Brooklyn on Grading Scale: 

Another common concern involves the grading scale. Brooklyn Hall (11) highlighted a practice that some students find frustrating: “Having 5 days after an assignment and taking off points until you turn it in just feels unfair.” Students want a more transparent and lenient grading system that helps them focus on learning rather than fearing penalties.  

This does not mean fully taking away the time limit for students to turn things in, but those five days after the assignment could be taken to use of the teachers helping the students one on one or checking on the students who are behind and giving them gentle reminders. Not only will this help students who may tend to get behind, or distracted easily, it will also make them feel more comfortable in the classroom and feel safer when asking for help. 

Cadence on School Spirit: 

School spirit and fun events have been emphasized by Cadence Adkins (11). She said, “We need more school spirit events, more fun days, just days to have a break and have fun.” Students, like Cadence, believe that fostering a sense of community and providing opportunities for enjoyment can improve the overall school experience. 

Students being able to have fun at school can help with their grades, attitudes and how they do overall. Making events where students, from the same and opposite grades, can socialize more could introduce more positivity into the school. 

Makenzie on Phone Usage: 

The use of smartphones during lunchtime was a topic brought up by Makenzie Raynor (11). “Be more lenient with phone. Let us be on them during lunch,” she suggested. Students value the opportunity to relax and connect with friends during lunch, and they believe that reasonable phone usage policies can enhance that experience.  

Some students don’t have friends who have the same lunch as them, so they end up sitting alone. No one should feel alone in a time where they are supposed to be taking a break to eat and relax. 

Mrs. Grimm’s Perspective: 

Even teachers have opinions on the matter. Mrs. Grimm, a dedicated educator at our school, offered her perspective on the dress code issue. “Better adherence to the school’s dress code is essential,” she stressed. “It can be unfair to some people, but there are others wearing basically undergarments as tops and bottoms. I don’t think it’s very enforced anymore.” 

Mrs. Grimm’s view highlights the importance of upholding existing policies consistently. Many students do severely break the dress code and get away with it. It’s not necessarily distracting but it can make other students uncomfortable. For that reason, it should be better enforced for all students. 

The school administration and staff should consider these ideas to ensure a more equitable and enjoyable school experience for everyone. Open dialogue between students, teachers and administrators is essential in creating a school environment that fosters learning, inclusivity, and personal growth. Those interviewed and I look forward to seeing if these suggestions are addressed in the future, and we hope that positive changes will be made for the benefit of all.