Senior Privilege to be Extended to Juniors in September

Vice Principal Michael Rovetto has officially announced that next year juniors will be entitled to a “junior privilege” status which has only previously been available to seniors. Starting in September 2025, juniors will have the ability to leave the school during study halls as long as they are in good academic standing and their parent or guardian has given their consent.

Senior privilege was introduced for the first time to current students this past year, and proved to be very successful. Rovetto explained how senior privilege reduced wandering, as most students who wander the halls are seniors in study hall.

Another benefit of senior privilege is the way in which it can be used as an incentive. The privilege can be used as both reward and a consequence, because students must be in good behavioral standing and passing all classes to be allowed senior privilege. Rovetto said that this year, two seniors who were in danger of not graduating, managed to bring their grades up all because of senior privilege.

The announcement has left sophomores ecstatic. Sophomore Sarah Elmhasni said, “I feel excited and happy since I don’t have to wait until senior year for senior privilege. I think it’s a really good addition for the Junior Class.”

Similarly, sophomore Samantha Bitten reacted very positively to the news, thinking of the ways in which it might benefit her class. She said, “I think it’ll affect the school positively because we will have much more freedom.” She also added that the extra break in the day will help relieve stress for both her and her classmates.

Numerous studies have shown how important breaks throughout the school day are. According to Northern Illinois University, “...while it may seem counterintuitive, taking regular breaks can actually help you be more productive than working without stopping. Effective breaks can help to reduce your stress levels so that you’re ready to refocus when you return to your work.”

Despite the many positives, Rovetto predicts a couple of problems might arise next school year. While a second scan-out station is to be added, since there will be so many more students scanning in and out of study halls at the greeter’s station, an increase in traffic may accumulate in those areas.