With the start of the third trimester, City High announced a new tardy policy for all students to follow. This change came from the district, as Liberty and West High had already implemented similar policies. They have been focusing on keeping consistent with all three high schools. The original tardy policy allowed the attendance office to handle tardies. But after teachers voiced their dislikes for the old policy, the new policy has given teachers more involvement.
“The tardy procedure is to encourage and reinforce the idea of being to class on time. When the bell rings, teachers should shut their doors. Before a student can enter, they will need a tardy pass,” Ms. Scudder said.
Tardy pass stations are for the first floor in the main foyer, while second and third floor classes must go to the library’s main entrance to get one. To get a pass, it’s important to have your ID.
“With the new policy, we are really helped by bringing teachers in and making it everybody’s responsibility. That way, we’re making sure that kids are being held accountable for when they are checking in with us and then going to class,” Ms. Wilson, the Attendance Secretary, said.
Once a student reaches four tardies, they are directed to speak with Wilson to come up with a plan together to reduce their tardiness. Although the policy seems unpopular among students, Teo, a hall monitor, agrees with students.
“I think it is very interesting. I think it started up too late in the season. I think if it was started in the first trimester, there probably would have been better results, but coming too late into the year, you guys kind of already got it in your minds,” Teo said.
But it seems the policy is working as more students are showing up on time for class.
“I have found that a lot of students that I used to see all the time, I don’t see them as often anymore. And I also think a lot of kids are really annoyed by the door locking, just like not being able to get in and out of class whenever. So out of spite and frustration they are honestly getting to class on time more and also staying in class more often,” Wilson said.
