Shrinking Time

Students this school year have been enjoying the extended time between classes, but next year it will be returning to normal. This is bad news for students due to all the benefits it provides. The extended time provides the opportunity for more kids to be in class on time, less stress for students who go to lockers, and more time to relax and settle in.

 

The extra time gives kids a chance to use the restroom or do what they need to do before class without being late or skipping.  Being able to talk with friends for a short amount of time can also be beneficial due to little free time during class and can keep students interested in their education. Boredom is one of the biggest reasons high schoolers lose interest when in school and this gives them the time to have fun and continue to get to class on time and stay focused.

 

For students who go to their lockers between classes, this is greatly beneficial. They get to grab what they need and have less of a chance to forget supplies. This would also allow them to be organized and keep track of their things.  More students ready for class means more students succeeding and prepared for the future, where these skills will very much matter.

 

Stress is another big factor as to why students do poorly in school. They need time to destress, relax, and focus on what makes them happy and ready to learn. 8 minutes between classes provides a longer time for students to chill and get in the mindset to learn. The time allows high schoolers to have their supplies out and possibly look over their notes to study up on the material before class

 

For example, as listed in Lafayette Times, less chaotic hallways, more prep time for class, and time to go to the restroom are some reasons that the time should be kept at 8. As well as the reasons listed, students may choose to not skip at all due to the extended time or miss less of class.

 

 Many high schoolers support this and see the benefits that it provides. Woodbridge Senior Highschool student Sima said, “It’s better with 8 minutes because some kids would just hang out in the school and not be in class. At least now they don’t miss as much or nothing at all.” Taking away the time given may also increase how many students miss part of class due to not having enough time for the restroom or going to their locker.

 

The 3 extra minutes we have this year provide time to destress, relax, and settle into things. Some students need the time, so taking it away for everyone is unfair and will mostly affect the kids who use the time for good. Students who skip class or are late will continue to be late no matter if there is less time or not. These are obvious reasons why our school should keep the extended time!