Last Friday, among the excitement and anticipation of a beautiful weekend, students were invited to step outside of their classes to attend class meetings in the auditorium.

Administrations led meetings for all grades, each focusing on relevant information for that class.  Freshmen were welcomed once again and important messages such as processes for using the restroom, bus platforms, and cafeterias were discussed.  Students had an opportunity to ask their administrators questions, clarifying any confusion there might be.

Mr. Barresi and the administration spoke about different topics to the veteran upperclassmen.  Our junior class was very interested to discuss new rules for parking permits, for as last year’s juniors begged for the opportunity to park in available spots, the wish has been granted for this year’s juniors and beyond.  This year, juniors with a license and a car will be able to obtain a parking permit, just like seniors.  Unlike seniors, juniors will not be able to reserve a spot before a license and car are available to them.  Mr. Barresi also spoke about the importance of junior year when it comes to college applications; this is the year colleges will look at for grades and participation in activities.

Senior Mustangs, while sad it didn’t start with them, were happy to hear about the new parking lot policy, as they feel their voice was heard last year.  The administration urged safety in their talks with the seniors, reminding them of the dangers of inviting outside people into the school, which is why (despite our shared love for convenience), delivery services such as Doordash and Grubhub are forbidden.   Other safety issues include not opening doors after 7:10 to let your friends into the building, safety gates in certain hallways, and Mr. Barresi’s allusion to the possible wearing of IDs in lanyards, which will be discussed further in the future.

All classes were gleeful to hear of a new change in our scheduling, which is that “delayed openings” (usually due to snow) will now be a 2-hour delay, rather than a 90-minute.  What kid (and teacher) doesn’t love an extra half hour to sleep in?

It’s important for the students of Brick Memorial High School to have access to policies and to have a place to speak their minds.  Class meetings are a fundamental aspect of the responsibility, integrity, and respect that helps us be STANG STRONG!