By Jayden Kimpel, Staff Writer & Copy Editor
After almost two years of hybrid — virtual and in-person — learning, Indian Trail students last month returned to classes under one roof for the 2021-2022 school year.
Due to the virtual option last year, many freshmen had not yet seen the building, or even had the option to tour it. Some sophomores had not even stepped foot into the building until this year.
Sophomore Peyton Kuryanowicz has adjusted to high school and the large building pretty well.
“It’s certainly different having almost everyone in the building here compared to the 20% of students that were here last year,” she said. “I’m really liking the noise of hearing everyone at lunch and in the halls, as well. It makes it seem like we have a regular year and that we’re back to normal, even though it’s not normal at all.”
Throughout the first quarter, students were able to participate in the spirit days, sports, and even start rehearsals for after-school events. From scrunchies and leg warmers to a sea of school colors, students are together once again.
“This year, I really enjoy being in person rather than being virtual. I was virtual all year last year, so it’s nice to see other people, along with being able to interact with my teachers and classmates face-to-face,” senior Ian Wojtak said.
Wojtak appreciates the ability to participate in and watch sports, go to dances, and just be able to be with friends again, he said.
For freshmen, high school can be both exciting and frightening. More people are in the building at once, along with added responsibility and more freedoms. While some are frightened, one freshman is ecstatic.
“I like how high school gives me way more freedom than what I had in middle school. I can learn more, examine more, and even move around the building more. I’m able to have a fresh start with this transition from middle school to high school,” freshman Orlando Moore said.
“I have the opportunity to get into things that help me in my adult life like driving, college applications and scholarships, honors and AP classes, and a ton of other things,” he said.
Besides new opportunities, there’s a new class period this year as well. In between the sixth and seventh periods, school officials implemented Hawk and Flight time to give students the chance to catch up on missing work, along with giving clubs a chance to meet. A new app called “FlexiSched” gives both students and teachers the chance to request to meet with each other.
“The schedule this year is way different than last year, and even the year before,” Wojtak said. “While I liked the A/B schedule and Hawk Time last year, classes this year seem way shorter. It feels very rushed, and it seems that classes are behind schedule.”
With everyone back in person, students who fall ill now do face a downside. Due to KUSD’s COVID-19 procedures, symptomatic students are forced out-of-the loop and don’t have the virtual option for school, whereas last year they could stay home and stay caught up with classes.
“I would really like the option to have recorded lectures, or even have an option to learn virtually. Whether I’m sick or quarantined, it’s difficult to have to communicate solely by email,” junior Eydie Furnett said.
As the first quarter of the 2021-2022 school year comes to an end, the second quarter soon begins. Holiday breaks will come soon, along with final exams, and the first music program concerts of the school year. More experiences will arise, and sooner than later- the school year will end.
“I’m looking forward to new experiences this year that are way different than middle school. High school is pretty enjoyable so far. I’m expecting both negative and positive things to happen in the near future, but I think I’ll enjoy high school.” Moore said.