The recent change in Kettle Run High School’s homeroom schedule has drawn mixed opinions from the student body, with a nearly 2:1 ratio of students who dislike the policy compared with those who like it. Many question whether the change was necessary at all, with some complaining that the bell schedule is too complicated and others feeling like they have lost time for activities. A few students, however, have reported feeling positive about the change, especially when it comes to club meetings.
Many have taken issue with the extra time and bells, with one student describing the change as “pointless,” while others call it confusing or “too much.” Others agree that the previous schedule was a better fit for Kettle Run and that the change didn’t need to happen. The biggest complaint among students involved the added bells, with several reporting that they make the schedule harder to follow. One respondent pointed out that students largely already knew they could obtain a pass at 10:40 before the new policy and therefore did not need an extra bell to be told when to arrive at a club they already attended.
The Cougar Time schedule has also, ironically, raised concerns about students losing time for activities despite that being a big factor behind the change in the first place. One student complained that the extra minutes cut into third block, while several others said their lunch time was also reduced. Many feel that this is unfair, especially because only the first lunch block is negatively affected. Club participation was also discussed, with some students believing that the new policy makes it more difficult to organize their time and attend meetings.
Despite the criticism, however, not every student opposed the change. One respondent said the new schedule succeeds in providing longer meeting times for clubs, while another pointed out the supposed “benefit” of a shorter third block. Some have suggested alternatives as well, including changing the Securly Pass system itself to allow students to make passes at 10:30 or use appointment passes. These changes would, in theory, allow students to reach their destinations on time without changing the schedule or adding additional bells.
Overall, while certain club members may benefit from the new policy, the majority of students surveyed felt that the change’s cons outweigh its pros, especially with time being taken away from first lunch. Student feedback could help Kettle Run administration decide if adjustments should be made to make the policy more effective and fair.
