Website Link: Bit.ly/changesmfhs

As a student who is actively involved in extracurricular activities, the proposed change to a 7-period schedule at Stow-Munroe Falls High School is deeply concerning. Currently, our 8-period schedule allows for a balance that accommodates academic needs, extracurricular commitments, and time for study halls which are crucial for managing the demands of high school life. 

However, the high school administration's plan to shift to a 7-period day threatens to disrupt this balance. By eliminating a period, students will have fewer opportunities to take elective courses or have a study hall, both of which are vital for personal development and mental health. This change would mean longer classes, less flexibility, and increased pressure on students to perform academically without essential downtime.

The Current Schedule:

• 1st.
• 2nd. 
• 3rd.
• 4th
• 5/6 (5th lunch, then 6/7)
• 7/8 (7th Lunch, then 8/9)
• 9th
• 10th
• 11th 

The Problem: 

By moving from our current schedule (8 Class Periods) to a new 7-period schedule, the school district effectively forces kids to leave extracurriculars and classes that bring fun to a students day or lose study halls, which can be crucial for students involved within activities outside of school, such as sports, music programs, and community service. For freshman who are required to take a study hall, they will now find themselves only limited to 2 periods, subtracting their four core classes of Math, English, a Social Studies, and a Science. Kids involved in CCP and AP classes will find themselves limited in what classes they can take, and will find themselves sacrificing classes that let them enjoy life, learn to cook, learn about rock and roll, and even learn weather patterns. 

Effectively, kids who are super heavily involved, or are just aiming for seals, College Classes, and honors diplomas will find themselves having to remove classes that they find enjoyable. This new schedule also pushes for two lunch periods, removing one from the current schedule. This will result in new influxes of students crowding each lunch, leaving students to have to wait longer for food, and to be restricted on seating issues. Both of these factors are already concerns of many students, and its only going to worsen with a new schedule. 

The administration has quoted to concerned students that they are "the minority of people who are affected" and that "sometimes students have to make sacrifices." 

Extracurricular activities play a significant role in shaping our educational experience, providing us with skills that extend beyond the classroom. They help in relieving stress, promoting teamwork, and enhancing our time management skills. With less time available due to the packed schedule, students involved in sports, music, arts, and clubs will find it challenging to maintain their commitments without sacrificing their academic performance or well-being. 

When I asked heavily involved students and students who may not be as involved on how they felt about this new schedule, nearly every single one issued disgust and asked "Why do we need this change? Things are fine as is."

Moreover, research has shown that students benefit from having time to unwind during the school day. Study halls offer a space for students to catch up on homework, study for tests, and take a breather from the hectic school environment. The absence of this time could lead to increased stress levels, impacting both mental and physical health. According to a report by the American Psychological Association, high school students are already experiencing high levels of stress, which can lead to burnout, anxiety, and even depression.

We urge the administration to reconsider this decision in light of its potential impact on student life. The current schedule has allowed students to excel academically while also fostering personal growth through extracurricular involvement. We propose maintaining the existing schedule, which balances academic rigor with the necessary breaks for mental recuperation and personal development.

Your support is crucial in ensuring that the voices of students, parents, and teachers are heard. By signing this petition, you stand with us in advocating for a school schedule that prioritizes the welfare of students. Let's work together to keep our educational environment stress-free and conducive to excellence. Please sign this petition to protect our right to a balanced school experience.