![Return To Class: A student receives a tardy slip in the attendance office after arriving late to class. The event displayed how the new point system tracks punctuality, emphasizing responsibility. “I'm happy that they [the administration] instituted something like this new point formula to provide consistency to how teachers are going to approach each infraction,” ninth-grade literature teacher James Johnson said.](https://theraidervoice.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Screenshot-2025-08-27-at-5.30.09-PM.png)
On the first day of school, the administration began enforcing a new point system in an effort to encourage students to comply with school policies and procedures. The policy is based on a system where students acquire points for a variety of infractions, resulting in specific consequences.
“The new point policy is a matrix that a number of administrators came up with and worked on over the summer. It wasn’t just one or two people who worked on it. We aimed for transparency that would help students and families understand [our policies],” Dean of Students Sarah Phillips said.
All students start with zero points, and would only earn points by committing an infraction. These include violations pertaining to attendance, dress code, phone use, bullying, and other behavioral misconduct. The more points a student collects, the more severe their consequences will be. Consequences can range from a warning to a detention or suspension, depending on the severity of the infraction.
“It’s easy for students to lose track of how many times they’ve been late or how often they’ve missed class. This system helps them stay aware of their own behavior. It also allows parents to stay informed in real time through a connected app,” Phillips said.
According to Phillips students seem receptive to the new policy.
“Students have asked thoughtful questions, which shows they’re taking it seriously. That’s what we want, for them to be clear on expectations and take own
(Khloe Cruz)
ership,” Phillips said.
Senior Valentina Mouhaffel Mattey does not seem to be too affected by the new policy.
“I understand why they put the point system in place, but I’ve never had a problem with following the rules, so it doesn’t necessarily affect me,” Mouhaffel Mattey said.
For others, such as freshman Kirsten Hug, the new policy raises concerns.
“I don’t like the new point policy because it feels unfair. Sometimes small things end up counting the same as bigger issues, which doesn’t seem balanced,” Hug said.
Faculty members, such as English teacher James Johnson, are pleased with the new guidelines.
“I’m happy they [the administration] instituted something like this new point formula to provide consistency to how teachers should approach each infraction, ensuring one teacher isn’t acting more harshly than another,” Johnson said.
According to Phillips, the administration will evaluate the system throughout the school year, making any necessary adjustments based on student, parent, and teacher feedback.
