The new RTI program implemented only days ago has already proven faulty. It not only harms the students, but it harms the teachers as well.

RTI was originally a time for students to show improvement in their core classes by seeking assistance from their instructors. It was a time to learn, a chance to make up work, and above all, a time for the student to show an effort in making the grade of their desire. RTI has been stripped of the core values it was built from. It has been defaced and given a letter grade as if the student body does not have enough on their plates. Now the one free time in the day is to be taken away.

Flaws upon flaws are piling up. When will we notice the problem in the system? When will we take action and come to an understanding that a math teacher is simply unfit to give English assignments? Teachers and students alike are affected by this system. Many students are unable to see their teachers in the mornings because of sports, clubs, and transportation issues. RTI was once the solution to this.

AP and gifted students are to take classes in which they have already received credit. This process of standardization is exactly the opposite of what should happen. We should instill in the minds of the students that everyone runs through life at their own pace. Some people are faster. Some are slower. In the end, we all cross the finish line, yet it is physically impossible for us to cross at the same time. This is exactly what standardization intends to do. It makes people believe they must finish at the same point, when in reality, we should only start at the same point finishing on our own time.

It is apparent that the current system of RTI is flawed. There is nothing the student body can do other than state their opinions loud and proud. Therefore, it is important to act now. Small voices in unison can make a roar. What can we change if we only speak our minds?