Most people dislike the “blacktop rule,” but what’s the real reason it was implemented? I asked three students for their thoughts on the rule. Two of them think it’s a bad rule, while the third said it’s a good one because it gives students time to eat.

The blacktop rule was introduced to prevent kids from eating, leaving their trash, and then rushing to the blacktop without cleaning up. By knowing the blacktop is off-limits, students are encouraged to pick up their trash. I also asked Ms. Hart what she thinks about the rule, and she said, “There are pros and cons to the blacktop rule.” She likes that it encourages students to clean up after themselves, but she doesn’t like how the students tend to group up and cause trouble. Jackson Brauning shared, “I like the new rule because it gives people time to eat before they go crazy on the blacktop.” Ms. Hart also said, “I don’t think the kids are happy with this rule because they just want to go out and have fun.”

Another reason for the rule is to prevent kids from saying they’re hungry after class or sneaking snacks into class, which can attract ants. Since the rule has been put in place, there has been a noticeable improvement in the cleanliness of the school. Additionally, students are now asking for fewer snack breaks during class.

Mr. Bose believes the new rule will remain in place going forward. He said, “The students I’ve spoken to haven’t expressed any major concerns about the rule.” By requiring all students to report to the cafeteria, the rule encourages students to eat in a designated space. It not only helps keep the campus clean but also reduces the workload for janitors.