Recurring topics like spirit days and homeroom reform were discussed Wednesday at The Forum, but the prospect of new extracurricular classes next year really excited students.

Wednesday’s Forum was crowded with students sharing seats and sitting on tables. As usual, the event began with announcements and topic suggestions. Junior Kate Shapiro reminded students that Exhibition Day is coming up this Friday and that they should bring money.

Spirit Days

Junior Stacy Li facilitated and started discussion with the first topic, SDA spirit days. The general concern was that participation in spirit days like Fancy Friday and Pirates vs. Ninja Day is declining. Many students suggested alternative ways to advertise upcoming themed days like posting on the SDA Facebook page or utilizing the campus bulletin boards.

“We need people to just do it of their own volition and then people will follow,” said senior Jacob Duga.

At the suggestion of senior Cassidy Mayeda, the group decided that Pirates vs. Ninja Day will be Wednesday June 4.

Extracurricular Classes

Social science teacher Kerry Koda introduced the next topic. The SDA Foundation has offered the opportunity for students to take extracurricular classes next year. The classes would be taught by SDA teachers but out of school. They would maybe meet for six weeks, once a week after school or on the weekend. They could be on non-academic subjects and would not be graded, said Koda.

As soon as Koda asked for suggestions for the new classes, many students raised their hands to contribute. There were a wide variety of ideas from computer science and personal finance to knitting and human sexuality. Canyon Crest Academy currently has an organic gardening class, said Koda.

Homeroom

The Forum also addressed the status of homerooms on campus. Themed homerooms are disappearing, said physics teacher George Stimson. While this concerned some students, others enjoyed more flexible homerooms. “Sometimes themes detract from the family,” said senior John Landers.

More specifically, students criticized the homeroom selection process. Themes are often vague or non-existent making it difficult for freshmen to choose a homeroom. Most students agreed that each homeroom should write a description of their homeroom rather than just a theme. Assistant Principal  Jeanne Jones also suggested that each homeroom have a table in the gym to show off their homeroom to incoming freshmen next year.

As this was the last Forum meeting of the school year, Koda encouraged students to speak to her or Stimson about getting involved in The Forum next year. They plan to restructure the event.