School Safety
The School Formal
Another school formal passed on Friday. Though these are great social occasions for the students, those of us on the administrative side approach these social events with a sharp intake of breath. Greenwood has strict guidelines and sanctions regarding the use of illegal substances at school events. One of the hardest things a school principal deals with is the suspension of students, particularly at this time of year. So, you hope that students will do their best and make good decisions about how they socialize prior to the event.
In this respect, our Grade 11 and 12 students did a great job at this year’s formal. They acted responsibly and honoured the spirit of the school’s policies regarding the use of alcohol prior to school events. Equally important, they had a good time at the formal. They really do seem to enjoy each others’ company, as well as the company of the teachers who chaperoned the event.
A few of us old timers spent some time prior to the arrival of the students reminiscing about how much school formals have changed in thirty years. Before parties, after parties, breakfast parties–not sure when all of this ritualistic behaviour emerged, but it seems much more complex than the relatively simple way we did things back in the late 70’s. Time to sign off. Next thing you know, I will be telling you about how far I walked to school!