Adapting to school rules can be challenging for students, especially in an environment where they have to get academic work done and be social. Rules range from dress codes and tardy policies to cell phone regulations and hallway guidelines. For many students, standing by these rules can feel overwhelming and stressful. School counselors are positioned to address these challenges, and try to help out with them. They are trained professionals who provide support to students in various aspects of their academic and personal lives, especially what is going on at school.
When it comes to helping students adapt to school rules, counselors serve as educators, advocates, and guides, offering information in the following ways: the adaptation to rules does not always go smoothly, and many students may require guidance and support to understand and reason for them.
I sat down with Mrs. Sanders, one of the high school guidance counselors, to discuss the new rules and the benefits they bring to both students and the school community. She’s a counselor for students with the first initials starting G-M. Occasionally, students may find themselves in conflict with school rules. Counselors act as mediators, helping students resolve these conflicts through open and constructive dialogues. This approaches conflict resolution skills and encourages students to engage with the rules more positively. When students understand the reasons behind school rules and receive guidance on how to navigate them, they are more likely to comply.
I asked Mrs. Sanders how she thinks the students are adapting to the new rules, and how she feels about them. She thinks the board of education were instrumental in enforcing the new cell phone policy Mr. White rewrote the new handbook and revised it regarding other rules.
When asked if she thought the misbehavior would clear up with the new rules Mrs. Sanders said she does believe the lack of cell phones will curb the students’ write-ups and classroom interruptions She’s impressed with the students’ rest with the cell phone policies, but she does believe that cell phones have been a major part of students’ and adults’ lives and recognizes that it is hard to change habits.
Mrs. Sanders went on to say that she has seen a decrease in student conflict, and mediation has not been needed since the cell phone policy has been in place. She discussed that the new policy creates a more orderly and respectful school environment, benefiting everyone. School rules and regulations are an integral part of creating a safe and conducive learning environment. However, students often need assistance in understanding and adapting to these rules. She feels a habit of not being on your phone will be an excellent habit as students transition into adulthood.
Having this discussion with Mrs. Sanders showed the bright side of all these restrictions, and not only the changes that are happening now but talking about how these can affect students’ lives in the future. Despite the student complaints, our counselors seem to see the good in all these new restrictions. Our faculty only wants the best for their students and want to set them up for not being so dependent on their phones and any electronic device.
