In past years, students have had the luxury of spending their option in the front courtyard by Wildcat Way, one of many alternatives to lunchtime in the cafeteria. As of this year, the courtyard is no longer an option area due to safety concerns from the Neuqua Valley Faculty. The rationale is that, because Wildcat Way is such an exposed area, allowing students so much time in the courtyard presents the risk that just about anybody could approach unnoticed and blend in with students. Although the threat of somebody dangerous joining students for their option period is unlikely, it is still a possibility that the staff must address. The bottom line is that the Neuqua faculty is not on a mission to take the options out of option; they are just doing their best to keep the campus as enclosed as possible.
“I don’t think [students] are intending to do anything secretive or dangerous,” Principle Bob McBride said regarding the risks of the courtyard. “It’s really just a safety issue.”
By Allie Hermann, staff writer
