Student Opinions Scoop: New Policies

BY LAUREN GODWIN '23, Staff Reporter

This school year, we have seen many new changes to our way of life as Bayside students. With a new headmaster and other various new leadership come many new rules and ideas, and students welcome some more than others. In a survey in which over 50 percent of Bayside Upper School students participated, data reveals the consensus that most students dislike many of the new policies and believe the majority of policies are ineffective. When asked about their opinions on seven new policies, students' responses show that only two of these policies were effective and/or liked.

However, many students are also indifferent about several of the new rules. The most disliked policy is that doors must be locked at all times; this rule is in place for our safety given the rise of nationwide school shootings in recent years. Despite the knowledge of this intention, 46 percent of students believe this policy is ineffective, whereas only 17 percent of students find it effective. In the survey, one student said, “I think it causes more of a disruption than anything else. It’s a hassle that won’t provide a whole lot of protection when it comes down to it. ”

When asked their opinions on the increased enforcement of the dress code, many students had similar complaints and expressed their belief that the new changes are rather useless. The 46 percent of students that view the renewed focus on dress code compliance as unfair are very vocal. As one student put it,

“In general, small things about a uniform like an untucked shirt or something of similar importance should not be a reason for negative referrals. We already wear a variety of Bayside attire, so everyone looking the same is impossible, and a tucked in shirt isn’t going to be the difference between the school succeeding or failing... ” However, another student said,

“I don't like uniforms, but I understand why we have them, and if we are going to have them, it should all be the same thing, so I don't care too much about the new policies. ” Multiple students also shared the belief that there is too much focus put towards policing the length of the girls’ skirts, and not enough towards boys having untucked shirts and the wrong type of shorts. Clearly, students have a variety of opinions on the new rules, from solid indifference to resentment.

The two policies of which students were the most welcoming were the positive referral system and spirit shirts on Fridays. 61 percent of students said they like the new positive referral system. While students said that they enjoy getting positive referrals, it has been observed that the majority of students who receive positive referrals are mostly students that have previously had bad behavior. Students also believe there need to be better incentives for those who receive these referrals, though many still like the positive referral system because they believe it is good for “evening out negatives, ” as one student said.

Overall, spirit shirt Fridays were the most appreciated new policy, as a whopping 87 percent of students said they enjoy not having to wear the polos on Fridays, while only 12 percent are neutral, mainly because they are band members, cheerleaders, and football players who don't wear their polos on Fridays. However, a few students still feel that we should be able to do more than just wear a different shirt on Fridays, especially on game days.

The reason students dislike the changes to our school is that they likely don’t understand why we have them. Many of the new rules were enacted by our new headmaster Dr. Scott Phillipps and our new Dean of Students Mr. Ryan Campbell. Through experience at different schools, these administrators have gained insight into ways to improve the Bayside environment

in ways that keep students safe and improve the quality of education.

However, of course, people are naturally averse to change, so hostility towards new policies is unsurprising. As time goes on, students are likely to warm up to these new ideas. It may be hard to understand that Bayside administrators have students' best interests at heart.

What is your opinion on the stronger dress code enforcement?

It is beneficial/fair 11.1% Other 9.4%

Neutral 43.3%

Other 2.9%

I like it 61.4% Neutral 24.6%

I don't like it 11.1% It is unfair 36.3%

How do you feel about the new positive referral system?

What is your opinion on the locked door policy?

It is effective 17% Other 11.1%

Neutral 25.7%

Poll of 171 Bayside Upper School Students

It is ineffective 46.2%