In the beginning of September students excitedly opened their manila envelopes to find their schedules. Scanning the list of classes their eyes stopped on final class. Homeroom.
Because of the lack of information provided, students are unsure of what to expect. “I don’t think it will be helpful because we already Saxon Time,” said freshman Cara McConnell.
The Langley Administration sent out a school wide email explaining that homeroom will be an opportunity for Freshman to meet with their M&M Mentors and for Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors to study for their classes.
However others are more optimistic. “It will be beneficial because it helps you get situated,” said Christina Amanodolan.
“It was presented at the end of last year but we were not given a whole lot of information,” said biology teacher Mr. Gilman. “My understanding is that the goal is to alleviate the time you lose from getting pulled out of class for special meetings.”
“We’re not sure what it is yet,” said administrator Mr. Meier, “It’s an instrument for our school when we have certain meetings so that students don’t get pulled out of class. So basically, I think, it is a way to track students.”
There are many different interpretations of what homeroom is among the students, teachers, and administration. However it is still a work in progress as Mr. Gilman stated which is why there is so much confusion. “Teachers were told that we would have a monthly activity period,” said Ms. Sonya Williams, “There hasn’t really been a need to go over it yet.”
Homeroom will meet monthly after the late start for half an hour according to Ms. Williams. “It will essentially be a Wednesday Saxon Time,” she said.
It was designed so that the mentor mentee program wouldn’t have to meet during Saxon Time and now will also be used for other activities and presentations. “People weren’t happy about losing their Saxon time,” said Ms. Williams. “Upperclassmen who aren’t in the mentor mentee program could have class meetings, they could guest speakers, or they could have time to get work done.”
Many students are doubtful about the helpfulness of homeroom, however the faculty is optimistic. “The design will be beneficial because kids will be able to use their Saxon time appropriately,” said Ms. Williams. “I think it will work out.”