The Case for Closed Campuses During Lunch: Ensuring Safety and Focused Education
Hello everyone,
I wanted to take a moment to address some of the concerns and criticisms that have been raised regarding my stance on closed campuses during lunch. I recently received a thoughtful comment from Tom, and I believe it deserves a more in-depth response. This issue is complex, and it’s important to consider all perspectives. Here’s why I advocate for closed campuses during lunch, and how this relates to my role as a candidate for Jackson County Commissioner.
Tom highlighted the importance of socializing for students, which I completely agree with. However, the primary goal of schools is to provide a focused educational environment. Staying on campus during lunch helps maintain this focus by minimizing distractions that can occur when students leave school grounds. By keeping students on campus, we can better ensure that their time is dedicated to learning and preparation for their futures.
One of the main reasons I advocate for closed campuses is the safety of our students. Allowing sophomores and younger students to leave campus during lunch introduces significant risks, especially when it comes to driving. In Oregon, newly licensed minors face a six-month restriction prohibiting them from carrying non-family passengers under the age of 21. This law is designed to minimize distractions and reduce accidents among new drivers. When students leave campus for lunch, they are often in a rush to return on time, increasing the likelihood of accidents and other safety issues.
There’s also the concern that local businesses might suffer from reduced sales if students stay on campus. However, many of these businesses already face issues with shoplifting, as evidenced by the need to have students leave their book bags at the door. While there might be a decrease in lunchtime sales, this could be balanced by a reduction in losses due to theft. Ensuring a safe and secure environment both on and off campus is a priority that we must address comprehensively.
It’s important to consider the timing of school dismissals and community activities. Programs like Head Start and half-day kindergarten often have schedule overlaps with high school lunch periods. This adds to the potential chaos and safety concerns on the roads. By keeping students on campus, we can help reduce traffic congestion and enhance safety for all age groups in our community.
I want to clarify that my advocacy for closed campuses during lunch is not about restricting overall freedom for students. I support their independence, including the ability to drive to and from school. However, lunchtime should be managed as a break to refuel and prepare for the rest of the school day, rather than a social hour. The goal is to maintain a focus on education while ensuring safety and compliance with driving laws.
While open campuses may offer social opportunities, a structured environment provides numerous benefits. Studies have shown that closed campuses can improve student performance and safety. By providing structured on-campus activities, we can engage students meaningfully during their breaks.
Tom mentioned that decisions regarding open and closed campuses are typically made by the school board, not the county commissioner. This is true, but it’s important to recognize the interconnected nature of our community. Issues such as juvenile delinquency often extend beyond the school board's jurisdiction and enter the realm of the juvenile justice system, which is a county responsibility. As a county commissioner, I may not have direct control over school policies, but I can advocate for policies that are in the best interest of our community and work collaboratively with the school board and other agencies.
In summary, keeping campuses closed during lunch can help maintain focus on education, enhance student safety, and reduce community disruptions. My role as a commissioner would be to advocate for these policies and encourage collaboration between all stakeholders to ensure the best outcomes for our students and community.
I encourage you to consider these points and support my candidacy for Jackson County Commissioner. Together, we can create a safer, more focused, and cohesive community for everyone.
Thank you for your continued support and engagement.
Read my previous blog post about closed campuses
Please keep an eye out for a part 3 expansion of this discussion about closed/open campuses and drugs/juvenile addiction.
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