‘Grizz Time’ could be on its way out

 ‘Grizz Time’ has been subject to debate since its relatively recent implementation at Granite Bay High School.

  The 28-minute intervention period was put in place to give time for students to seek help from teachers and catch up on their studies. Since its inception at the start of the 2017-2018 school year, there has been a wide range of opinions regarding its purpose and effectiveness.

  However, it seems that Grizz Time might no longer have a place at GBHS. With potential changes on the horizon, the priority period may be eliminated.

  According to assistant principal Jennifer Buschmann, Grizz Time changes are being considered, but nothing is definitive yet. Also, any possible changes would not take effect until next year.

  “Decisions will be made before the end of the school year,” Buschmann said.

  Buschmann noted the importance of student and teacher input in deciding the future of Grizz Time.

  “Staff, administration and teachers mostly (make decisions about Grizz Time), but we have been taking in feedback from our parents and student survey,” Buschmann said. “Student input is very valuable.”  

  The faculty does, in fact, have its own opinions on the possible changes to Grizz Time.

   Lisa Goldsmith, who teaches Advanced Placement biology and physiology, said the intervention period is valuable to students.

  “I think Grizz Time is an equitable time for students to meet with their teachers, ask questions, get extra help, get a little review in, relax and socialize,” Goldsmith said. “I like having a dedicated time for each period because many students have various commitments after school, and I don’t like taking their lunch time away from them. I have found that I have become closer and more connected to many students who are consistently in my room for Grizz Time.”

  For Goldsmith, the priority period is really what students make of it.

  “There are many factors that lead to successful Grizz Times, and I think most of that comes from the teacher,” Goldsmith said. “It’s frustrating when (the teacher) cares more about (the student’s) learning than they seem to. I’m not sure if changing the schedule will change that.”

  Goldsmith said she sees Grizz Time in need of repurposing, not cancellation.

  “I also believe Grizz Time has a negative light shined on it because, if a student is asked to come in during Grizz Time, there is the assumption that the student is failing the course,” Goldsmith said. “I think Grizz Time needs a rebranding, not necessarily a change in its schedule.”

 Many students said Grizz Time has been an invaluable asset.

 “It’s effective in its own ways, whether people use it to take a break or catch up on homework, and it should be kept,” junior Avani Singh said.

  Singh said there are many useful aspects of intervention.

  “I use Grizz Time to take a mini mental break in order to rest my mind,” Singh said. “It also allows me to get homework done that I may not have time to do later.”