High School in Need of Remodel
What would have been new, improved, and life changing decades ago has become complex, out of order, and in some circumstances, just inefficient. Photo courtesy of Feliphe Schiarolli
Nowadays, it is rather common for us as both students and teachers to think about our country and the world around us to the point of disregarding the problems we see within our community. This can be a unifying trait for many of us, considering it is conflict that can bring tangible change we all can see become from our advocacy and praxis. Despite the conflicts and circumstances we pit against each other as a school, it is obvious that this school is what brings many of us together, and is a stepping stone for all of us one way or another. However, as many can see from our bathrooms, classes, and even halls, this school most definitely has age to it. And while some things can age like fine wine, a building occupying hundreds of people every year cannot do that.
Specifically, pieces of what feels like to be prehistoric technology for our students is the air conditioning and state of our bathrooms. What would have been new, improved, and life changing decades ago has become complex, out of order, and in some circumstances, just inefficient.
Both male and female peers report flooding, leaky faucets, and other undesirable pieces within our lavatories. Outside of the restroom, a system of air conditioning brings a rather confusing mix of heat and cold throughout our classrooms. Ms. Imes, a teacher in the science hall, has a room notorious for how cold it can get. Even the main hall of our school has fans put in place to help vent out how hot it can get, especially in transition to classes when a flood of kids come rushing through.
But how much does this affect the people at the school? According to a variety of sources, it comes in a variety of ways. Mr. John Williams, a technical design teacher, expresses content in his work area despite a disliking of the contrast of hot and cold to his classroom and computer lab by students. He has currently filled out a form requesting repairs. A student anonymously reported their discontent with the disarray of the bathrooms. Loose sinks have led to occasional flooding and some basins that partially work, or do not work at all. Many, both student and staff alike, show irritation when asked about a lack of soap and paper towels when necessary.
What do you think? Will we continue a cycle of heat exhaustion, freezing chills, and unfavorable washroom conditions? Will our superiors take the precautions and steps necessary to properly fix this issue? Only time can tell.
