In the past, changing one’s schedule only required students to fill out a Google form for their counselor or students could come into the Guidance Office and meet with their counselor. 

But, according to Anna Speaker, registrar, this caused some issues. 

“Unfortunately, this caused students to come in and change their schedules two, three, four or five times,” Speaker said. “They would change it and change it again which is a huge workload on the counselors.”

Now a new form must be filled out for every class a student wants to change and it must be signed by a parent or guardian. Once students have parent approval, they can make a counselor appointment and change their class. 

Last year, second-semester schedule changes also needed to be completed before the first semester ended, while first-semester schedule changes didn’t have to be completed until the third day of classes. To keep both semesters consistent, Speaker said this year the deadline for the second semester will be pushed to the third day of second semester. 

“This should fix the issues from last year,” Speaker said. 

Associate Principal Dr. Mike Wegener said he hopes the new procedures keep parents involved with their children’s schedules. In the past, parents have expressed concern about their lack of involvement. 

“Along with offering a longer period for students to change their schedule, it will keep parents aware of the classes their students intend to take,” Wegener said.

Andrew McCray, junior, said he has had friends struggle with schedule changes in the past.

“I think it will put more pressure on their plate when this hassle could be avoided,” McCray said. 

But, he’s not happy with the changes this year.

“I think it’s pretty stupid that I need to print out a hard copy and have my parents sign it,” McCray said. “It’s so many extra steps that weren’t needed.”

Second semester starts Tuesday, Jan. 16, making the last day for students to switch classes Thursday, Jan. 18.