The Arena:

As students stampede into the Arena with backpacks slung over their shoulders, the distinct sound of chatter and hustle could be heard, gradually increasing until every student had found a seat for themselves and a few friends. Some students choose to discuss their weekend plans, while others complained about future tests and quizzes they will face. The students finish their leftover work, and gather with each other to engage in conversation, as they had nothing better to do. The Arena served as a place for all students to gather and spend time with friends, without the stress of teachers or homework on their mind.

 “I think the Arena time was a good break for us amongst all the stress,” says freshman Siya Kumar. “It was fun, and I got to meet with friends that I don’t have any classes with.”

The Blue Gym:

With students flooding the halls of the school, each person appeared desperate to join their friends, and reach a destination to study and work. In search of a serene atmosphere, a decent amount of students hustled into the Blue Gym – with relieved expressions on their faces that they finally found a suited study space. The new Flex System required students either pick the Arena, Cafe, or Blue Gym. Some students found respite from the bustling Arena or Cafeteria in the Blue Gym.

“This system was probably created as a better way to organize students so that each individual has a better environment to study. To me, it doesn’t make a difference,” said sophomore Kristine Yin.

In the Blue Gym, students seemed relaxed, as if they were in their own world, not bothered by anyone. There was enough space for every student in the gym to have their own comfortable bubble so that they could relax and study. Even though the swarm of people walking into the gym seemed chaotic at first, the bleachers provided enough room for everyone and made the area feel peaceful. Personally, working in the Blue Gym was a relief because the place wasn’t noisy and chaotic at all, and it allowed you to be productive.

“Flex time was good and I was productive and got a lot of stuff done,” said sophomore Brinley Bramwell.“It will affect my school career because it gives me more time to study and be productive, so I will get higher grades.”

The Cafeteria:

In the cafeteria, students rushed in to see the best of both worlds, studying and talking with friends. After the initial rush of students, there was quiet chatter as they started getting to work. Working collaboratively with their peers, students could focus on homework but still have fun socializing. Many people took advantage of the opportunity and quizzed each other, worked together on projects and got caught up.

Most of these students wanted to be productive, but still have an enjoyable time and a little rest. The only negative thing students had to say was that all the noise and crowd detracted a bit from homework. The biggest suggestion was to have more places to work instead of just three.

“I like it (Flex) because I get to see my friends that aren’t in my IF class and work on stuff. I think it would work fine. It is a little crowded, but I like the set up of it,” said senior Madelyn Barron. “(I would) maybe just have more places for people to meet instead of 3. I know it’s hard for teachers, but having everyone in three places makes it a little crowded.”

Alexis Klosterman, a freshman at South, had a liking for the new addition to the schedule, but the decision hasn’t been finalized for the school year yet.

“I think it could be a good idea for students to relax and have fun during the school day, but also catch up on work,” Klosterman added. “It’s good, but a little crazy because it’s extremely crowded in the cafeteria. People are trying to from place to place all at one time.” 

While students have varying opinions on how this Flex schedule went, since it is a change from their regular schedule, it will be interesting to see how South Forsyth Administrators will adjust and experiment to find the most beneficial schedule for students.