Students at the school recently moved from classrooms 43-56 to temporary portables near the front gate due to modern renovations. The sudden change has caused students to adjust both their schedules and routines.
The move has brought mixed feelings among students. Some were frustrated by the extra walking, while others found the change exciting.
“I was annoyed at first that I have more walking in between my classes, but it is not as bad as I thought,” said Olivia Savioja (12).
For many, getting to class on time has been the biggest challenge. Students must navigate a longer route across campus, and the bells do not ring in the portables.
“The biggest challenge is definitely the long walk. My previous class is far from the portables, so I end up being late almost every day,” said Victoria De La Torre (12).
Despite the challenges, there are benefits to the new classrooms. Students said the portables are cleaner, more spacious, and more organized than the old wing.
“Being in the portables allows me to leave the school right when school ends, and I also like how the classrooms are more spacious,” Savioja said.
Mrs. Benton, a teacher in the portables, said the move was challenging but manageable. “The biggest challenge was packing up all of our stuff in our old rooms and moving and setting up the new ones in the middle of the school year,” Benton explained. “But the rooms are quieter out here, bigger, and cleaner, so it has actually affected the students in a positive way.”
Teachers have been helping students adjust by allowing early dismissal for passing periods and bus schedules.
“The only major thing we have done out here is allow students to leave a little early so they can get to their next class on time, or get to the bus after school on time since it’s a longer walk,” Mrs. Benton said.
Students also mentioned safety and communication concerns in the portables. Bells, announcements, and alarms are harder to hear, which can make the environment feel less secure.
“I wish the school had planned the move so it was easier to get around between classes,” De La Torre said.
Daily routines have changed for many students, with longer walks between classes and adjustments to when they leave for their next period. Some hope small changes could make the transition easier. Students and teachers believe adaptation will take time, but most are optimistic about settling in. “I think that students will get adjusted in a week or two,” Savioja said. “It really depends on the person, but we’ll get there.”
