Seniors can utilize senior elect to reduce their daily school schedule. It is necessary for students to have this as an option, considering the amount of work needed to prepare for their future after high school. Some argue students do not properly use or need the extra hour in the day.
The additional hour within seniors’ days can result in better time management. This would push students to get homework, college applications and other tasks done. The opportunity to have one hour free of class can be a beneficial way to reduce stress.
“The primary goal of senior elective is a tool that seniors who are academically on track and finding success use to reduce the rigor they have in their schedule,” counselor Dan Ralston explained.
Additionally, there are a diverse amount of classes available to take which can give students a broader perspective on certain subjects. These include personal finance, animal care, art, marketing, management, music, floral design and many more. People have argued that students are not using senior elective efficiently.
When asked if senior elective is necessary Michael Puhrmann, social studies teacher, thinks “too many students use it as just an hour off and aren’t really using the hour for career exploration.”
Although some students do waste the extra hour it is more beneficial than not. If a senior is not using their time wisely it is unlikely they would benefit from taking another elective.
Also, all seniors need to take another class in the first place. Some plan on not attending college and are immediately joining the workforce, military and other careers. They may not need another class on top of their regular schedule.
“There could be situations where they don’t need the credit and need to utilize that time to help their family or themselves,” Puhrmann said.
Furthermore, senior elect is a helpful tool for students who are academically challenged with five classes. Whether they are taking rigorous classes or are not in need of more credits to graduate.
Senior Kaitlyn Ginkel said it is helpful to sleep in an extra hour and take time for more studying or homework.
Although some students waste that time, they may already have their future in mind or are taking other rigorous courses. Overall senior elect is a positive privilege for seniors. District leaders need to ensure that senior elect is an option as schedule changes are currently being discussed.
Makayla Shugg • Feb 6, 2024 at 7:55 am
I picked this article to read because I think that a senior elect is a great opportunity. This article talks about the benefits but also how some students do use it to an advantage. In the article it stated that Michael Puhrmann, social studies teacher, thinks “too many students use it as just an hour off and aren’t really using the hour,” which is true but, even if they use it as an hour off at one point it will benefit them and they will use it for school work or time to get future goals set up.