By Emma Porter
What would a school run by students look like? McNicholas students were asked what they would do if they were in charge for a day.
Many students’ wishes included a change to the amount of homework given. Students said that they are stressed about the amount of homework they have every night and believe that if they were to lessen the amount of homework, they would feel less pressure. With a day of students in charge, lessening the amount of homework would make school more enjoyable and less stressful. Sophomore Izzy Payne said, “I’d probably ban homework if I were in charge. It’s too stressful and time-consuming.”
Another common rule-change that students agreed on was more freedom in the cafeteria. Freshman Hanna Ruggiero said, “I think we should be able to have our phones during lunch. It’s our only free time during the day and we should be able to use our phones then.” While some students agreed with that aspect, freshman Jude Gehring explained, “I think more people should be allowed at a table in the lunchroom. I just want to be able to sit with more of my friends.”
Senior Liliana McHugh said, “I’d make the rules about headphones less strict, like during study hall.”
Freshman Mary Fullarton said, “If I were in charge, I’d get rid of the uniform because I want to dress in my own style. I think all kids would prefer getting to wear what they wanted instead of a uniform.”
In the end, a day in charge varied in responses and showed something much bigger than just their imagination—a look into the hopes and priorities of students. Some ideas were more fun and carefree while others gave a look into students’ priorities. Their ideas serve as a reminder that even imagining change can bring students and teachers alike closer together.
To hear more about what students would do if they were in charge, click this video link.
The McNicholas Milestone 