Photos by Cassidy Mayeda and Stacy Li.

Wednesday’s  Forum meeting wasn’t very large, but it was filled with conversation and fresh ideas surrounding Exhibition Day and the organization of homeroom announcements. Around 20 students and five teachers gathered after school March 5  to discuss current and upcoming events at SDA and how to improve them.

Initial Announcements

Physics teacher George Stimson began the meeting by making the announcement that students should go see SDA’s Theatre for a Cause play, “Steel Magnolias.” “It is a listener’s play,” Stimson said. “It will have you laughing and crying at the same time.” Other announcements were made about the Japanese exchange students at SDA from March  11-20, and the Mosaic launching their new “Brazil” theme next week.

Green Week

Next on the agenda was Green Week. Clubs will sign up to host events that promote environmental awareness. Last year, the bowling club hosted lawn bowling with recycled containers, which gained a positive response from students. So far, 17 different clubs have signed up to host events but there is still more room for clubs who are interested. Green Week will take place from April 21 -26.  

Exhibition Day

Soon after Green Week, Exhibition Day will take place. ASB organizers are looking for more students to participate and host exhibitions to show off their skills or talents. A reoccurring concern brought up in the meeting regarded: too many people selling things instead of exhibiting them. Students revealed concern that vendors were taking over Exhibition Day and each year, fewer  activities and exhibition booths are involved.

Culinary Arts and World History teacher Scott Huntley suggested that there should be restrictions on how many students can sell food during each exhibition. It was also noted by AP US History teacher Kerry Koda that the selling of handmade products is more acceptable than selling food because it is showcasing students’ talents.

Homeroom Olympics

Another issue brought to light is that announcements made during homeroom in general aren’t reaching students. While ASB, homeroom Olympics helpers, and PALS often come into homerooms to made announcements, they often are not heard because of students talking and socializing. One student noted that the more forceful a teacher is about quieting the students, the better the students oblige.

While recognized by teachers that homeroom is a time for students to relax and prepare for their other classes, Huntley noted that homeroom was designed to be a time for announcements. He said, “Do you really need to take a nap after an hour and a half of school?” He recognized that teachers need to be more proactive about getting the students to focus on and respect the people who come in to announce.

Koda said, “If kids came and talked to teachers about it, it would probably make a big difference.” The conclusion was drawn that homeroom was made to help kids be aware of what is happening at school, and it should be used as such.

The next Forum meeting will be held at lunch on Tuesday, March 25 and the effectiveness of homeroom will be discussed again.