Voices from the Trail asked Mr. Byrd, the chairperson of the school environment committee and a vice principal, about how students here at MTHS can further improve the school environment.  He provided four tips on how to do so:

“Be connected to something outside of class”

By “something” he means after-school activities here at Monterey Trail, such as sports, clubs, and student council.  According to Mr. Byrd, students who participate in school activities have “a greater appreciation for the school,” so they are more likely to want to attend.  In addition, extra-curricular activities give students “incentives” so that they are less likely to harm the school.

“Believe and understand that teachers and staff members care”

Teachers, the administration, campus security, and other staff members care about the students.  They want what is best for the students and the school, so students who understand that will usually follow their requests, whether it is doing homework, taking off a hat in class, or going to class on time.  By cooperating with teachers and staff members, students can help to keep the school environment safe.

“Be a role model to someone younger”

Mr. Byrd advises students to be role models to underclassmen.  He states, “Model the expectations that you have for others, and they will follow through.”  If students at our school behave responsibly, incoming freshman and middle school students will do the same.

“Tell an adult” if you hear of a fight or conflict in which “someone might get hurt”

This is probably one of the most difficult things for students to do.  By doing so, some might worry about getting in trouble with other students or feel as though they are betraying their fellow students.  However, if they know that someone may get hurt physically or emotionally, it is their responsibility as students to inform a staff member so that no one is harmed.  Notifying staff members about possible fights or problems is always anonymous.

While teachers and staff members may provide the tools necessary for education, creating and maintaining a good school environment depends on the students who attend the school.  If the students here at Monterey Trail High School can all strive to play their part in creating a good school environment, we can help build a “better and stronger school.”