School? More like Daycare.

By McKenna Rueter

Teachers are turning into babysitters the last three days of school. The Howard County Board of Education has extended its school year by three days to make up for inclement weather closings, the last day of school for students has been moved to Tuesday, June 19, 2018. However, controversy has arisen with these extended days because new curriculum and material cannot be distributed to students on these last three days.

Teachers are faced with the problem of how to keep the students engaged while not starting new material. I believe there will be a large spike in absences with students who believe the last three days are pointless and are not only a waste of their time but the teacher’s time as well. Students opportunities are taken away to start jobs, visit colleges, and start their much deserved summer. I feel the school system is foolish to think students will be willing to come in after a year of work and have already taken their challenging exams. Teachers can not hold any celebrations, new material, or class activities due to the Muslim holiday beginning on Friday the 15th. Child care is another aspect to take into consideration while parents would have to find other solutions with several half days. Mr. Reigel, Glenelg’s Social Studies ITL, response when asked how he perceives the topic of the last three days was, “I believe that it is absolutely ridiculous that lawmakers make laws not knowing what their actions mean.” Mr. Reigel shares the opinion of many teachers and students who are frustrated with the school system.

Schools convey the importance of unity, hard work, and efficiency. The Board of Education is defeating the purpose of community and hard work by giving students and teachers a lack of purpose. The point of schools is to educate and it is a disappointing message that some seem to care more about meeting a number requirement rather than constructive learning days. This decision has been made in order to meet a requirement rather than create significant learning opportunities.