As students adjust to their new classes and teachers this year, they also have to adapt to some new rules and programs. According to the ANHS staff, these regulations are helping tremendously with their short-handedness in the 2022-2023 school year. 

With the introduction of a stricter tardy policy and a new management of Wolverine+, Mrs. Pasqua, a school proctor, remarks, “The first few days I could see a difference, and I’ve been here seven years.” Now that consequences are being given for failure to arrive to class on time, as well as negligence to self-schedule for the 30 minute daily support, it seems like the majority of students have rearranged their personal schedules to avoid repercussions. 

In addition, Mrs. Pasqua explains that ANHS is “short-handed” but because of the new rules, there hasn’t been much of a problem. It’s easier to keep track of students this year and everything is more orderly.  However, “they’re getting some new people in” including the return of Keith on November 7! Although some students are irritated by this stricter system, overall, Mrs. Pasqua speaks for the entire school staff and says that “The kids are being kinder” and that’s what matters here at Aliso Niguel. Many students have relaized that if they don’t follow these simple measures being implemented, they will suffer consequences, therefore, they’re stepping up and being more responsible. Although some students are irritated, they are holding themselves more accountable and arriving to class on time as well as going to Wolverine+ and following the general rules on campus. 

Chloe Young (11), experienced school with and without these new policies, and remarks that “Last year, [she] had up until the minute the bell rang to choose [her] tutorial class, but now [she] must know where [she] want[s] to go days in advance which can sometimes create problems. Some students find it stressful to decide where they want to schedule themselves, especially if they’re unaware of an upcoming test or assignment in one class. Additionally, Chloe mentions that she is “sure there are benefits from this system so the school is more safe, and teachers know where all the students are, but it’s definitely been a big adjustment.” School staff, including proctors are benefiting from these regulations, while students continue learning to adjust. 

However, studies have shown that being responsible for setting goals and a schedule, creates habits that will follow students into their future lives. Maurice J. Elias, a professor at Rutger’s Univeristy, remarks that setting aims can make students “feel in control of their learning.” Learning to set and meet goals is an important ability that, over time, places the responsibility of meeting academic objectives directly in their hands. But to be effective, teaching students these skills should start small. That’s why at ANHS, faculty has decided to make these small changes to help set students up for success in the future. Instead of skipping out of Wolverine +, students are in control of where they need to go for extra help or assistance, and must attend too.