FHN has seen an incredible improvement in student behavior compared to last year. Fights have grown rarer and students and teachers agree that the climate has improved. Still, student behavior at FHN needs some work in one specific area: assemblies.

It’s hard to calm a crowd of 2000 students, and it’s even harder with little to no help from the students themselves. Speakers can easily be drowned out by the multitude of teenagers.

Assemblies are planned and orchestrated by both the administration and various student groups. During pep assemblies, it’s okay to get loud, and it’s encouraged, but students need to be mindful of when to quiet down during assemblies. A Veteran’s Day assembly isn’t a good time to get loud. It’s just common courtesy. If time and effort goes into the planning, let’s show that time and effort- and the people behind it- some respect. In addition, chatter can distract other students who may have a genuine interest in the topic at hand.

For assemblies, one way we can improve student behavior is through smart seating. Sitting with classes instead of allowing random seating can reduce the chatter while presenters are speaking, or simply not sitting next to people who will inspire one to talk.

Another way to reduce talking and to improve student behavior is to have more consequences or even just more warnings about the importance of respect at assemblies. Some assemblies really are about significant topics: things like Veterans Day, the Code of Conduct and autism awareness, and by acting with consideration during these, it’s showing consideration to the topic of the assembly.

So let’s be a little more respectful during serious assemblies, decreasing distractions and giving off a better impression of our student body.