Armijo High School has had an unfortunate a wave load of students not showing up to classes on time some even at all.
After my interview with principal Mr.Powell and vice-principal Ms.Lopez some of the information I gathered consists of a lot of positivity from the both saying “ When kids hear the music they immediately start walking quicker.” which results in majority of students getting to class on time. Mr.Powell stated that “ Me being connected to Rodriguez high school and Fairfield High School I thought we’d try the same strategy they use with tardy sweeps.”
The way this works for admin and teachers is: a principal plays music over the intercom , students make their way to classrooms and teachers close their door after the music ends (signaling the end in the passing period and the start of class) teachers take attendance right away. After someone has been caught in the tardy sweep 3 times, they will receive consequences. There are three main consequences – the first is only a warning: you receive an email with your warning regarding your tardy. Your second time being caught results in lunch detention and with the third resulting in the best fit action.
Principle Powell shared his very open opinion about the positive impact with tardy sweeps and also broke down negative opinions. As for some students, Mr.Powell agrees there’s some of us who need a little more time working on being on time. He also wants to change students’ mindset about school, he explains that wants nothing more than for us to feel welcomed. As principal Mr.Powell says he doesn’t want tardy sweeps to be increased instead, he wants students to be able to go to class on time and enjoy music from period to period. He wants us to view tardy sweeps as an enjoyable and fun supportive strategy rather than seeing it as a punishment. Mr.Powell has never been late to work and expects students to share the same habit with class. Mr.Powell emphasizes making a positive influence with students to be responsible and on time. “There needs to be some more information to make a final decision about the impacts being made so far we all believe this tardy sweep strategy is working” he says.
Although, tardy sweeps may seem annoying to students recently Mr.Powell has implemented shout outs and song requests to make tardy sweeps more enjoyable.
