New guidance changes adversely affecting seniors

    Every year, students returning to Hall can expect a certain number of changes. While ninth through eleventh grade students are busy adjusting to a more rigorous schedule, twelfth graders are now focusing on the college application process. Unfortunately, seniors have gotten more than they bargained for.

    This summer, the Hall guidance department welcomed two new guidance counselors to the school, including a fourth counselor for the senior class. While there was an obvious need for additional guidance counselors on account of the bursting school population, seniors will be adversely affected by this drastic change. A large number of students were designated a new guidance counselor this fall, some for the second time in their high school careers.

    Guidance counselors play an intrinsic role in the admissions process. Besides advising students, counselors are expected to write a letter of recommendation for their pupils. Colleges look to the counselor to provide them with a general picture of prospective students. Composing a complete and comprehensive evaluation requires an extensive knowledge of the student’s interests and personality, which only comes through a long-term relationship.

    Regardless of the influx of new students, the guidance department has made a considerable blunder in reassigning seniors only months before their applications are mailed.

    Over the last few years, many seniors have taken the time to visit their guidance counselor to discuss academic or social issues. Some have built a bond with the counselor. In order to be a valuable contributor to an application, it is crucial for counselors to be well-acquainted with their students.

    The guidance department should allow students’ former counselors to write their letters of recommendation. Otherwise, students are at the risk of submitting potentially weakened applications. With college admissions becoming more competitive than ever, Hall students should not be placed at a disadvantage because of administrative folly.

Together we are proud...

    By now students and faculty have become fully acquainted with Hall’s new slogan: “We are proud. We are Hall High.” Introduced by Interim Principal Dr. Donald Slater, the oft-parodied saying is part of an effort to create a new sense of community to our decidedly stratified high school.

    Despite the inevitable snickering, Slater has the right idea. In the past, Hall has suffered from a lack of unity, especially under ex-Principal John Hudson and his administration. Slater is eager to bring back Hall’s sorely lacking school spirit, which apparently left us three to five years ago.

    Last spring, after Hudson declared his intention to resign, Slater announced several recent student accomplishments over the intercom. Afterwards, the office staff erupted in applause. “That’s what a real principal does!” said an ebullient secretary.

    Slater does appear to be the real thing. The slogan may be a bit corny, but it’s certainly a step in the right direction.