New school year, new people, and new rules.

All of these “new” elements combined can send a freshman, or a new student, into a spiral. It’s never easy to embrace change and once again become a small fish in a bigger pond. For the first time, most of these younger students are experiencing a new level of freedom and responsibility. 

One lunch, school ending earlier, and even more freedom throughout the day are all changes for these younger students. Although some students seem relaxed and comfortable with the changes, there are several students who are still adjusting to a new way of learning. High school is a new environment, but underclass students throughout the halls are seemingly taking on their newest adventures with a positive outlook.

Students do seem to enjoy the opportunity to eat lunch with their friends because it is a time for them to connect with peers, compete in fun school activities, learn about new clubs, and even meet with teachers if necessary. Not all students have a study hall or an excused block, so the lunch block is essentially a free period. Overall, One Lunch does show more positive effects for students.

Possibly the biggest difference for underclass students would be the change in school start time, which initially has had a big effect on younger students. Although some students are opposed to the idea of getting to school by 7:20 a.m., they are okay with the idea of their school day ending earlier in the day. So, while earlier wake-up alarms are still somewhat shocking, they’ve adjusted and as the day proceeds, their productivity heightens.

Underclassmen throughout the halls share their ideas and opinions on everything they have found new and changed this new school year.