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The competition for first-rate employment, with upward mobility and decent wages can be fierce to say the least. The ultimate mission of Flagstaff Unified School District is to guide our city's youth to not only enter that competitive market, but to become productive, responsible adults in the modern work force.
A high school student's day is broken down to "mimic" an average work day. The board approved attendance policies are in place to provide boundaries similar to those encountered on the job. As in the real world, if you violate a rule or policy there are consequences. It is highly unlikely an employer will "hold attendance" due to bad weather, or make excuses for an employee that is chronically tardy or absent from their job. It wouldn't make good business sense; the business would rapidly deteriorate.
Unfortunately, the punctuality of our students has progressively declined. An increased percentage of our students demonstrate no apprehension when they saunter into class twenty or thirty minutes late. Disruption to the other students is of no concern; to say nothing of the teacher's consternation at the interruption of a critical lecture or test.
Our society, for the most part, has grown complacent. It’s become a free for all and our young people are watching us closely! We, as adults; and most importantly as educators, must put the brakes on this runaway train. Let’s lead by example and give these kids a path of success to follow. First-- when setting a rule or boundary don't reset it at the first sign of adversity. Second -- enforce the dress code; or better yet put them in a uniform. Third -- BAN CELL PHONES! These kids do NOT need to be in constant communication with their friends and family during school hours. They existed just fine before the creation of cell phones. Perhaps a few of the procedures outlined in the RTP website would prove useful if practiced throughout the district; starting at home.
And last but not least; yes, there are student specific circumstances that may warrant leniency, but only for that particular student; an example being chronic health. These students may have a life altering health issue that should make them exempt for the time necessary to overcome the crisis.
Until next time! |
