Recently, we sent out a poll that was answered by thirty Orlando Christian Prep students anonymously via Google forms. We asked students if they could change anything about OCP, what would it be? We received a variety of results, but a few stood out and repeated as themes in the answers.
Fourteen of the thirty students asked for new or updated dress code rules. Many students asked for an updated outerwear policy, such as similar rules to last year wear solid colors were allowed. Other students asked for an outerwear policy where student could wear jackets from whichever college they are planning to attend. Many also asked for boys to be allowed to wear earrings in school, as many have earrings now but have to remove them at school. Another suggested rule change is being allowed to wear spirit shirts from any year on Fridays as well as any other OCP spirit weary you may have, such as team and club shirts.
Some students asked for a larger selection of elective classes (and we understand this is something OCP has been working on over the past few years). Students also asked for more field trips, claiming they can be a beneficial break from the classroom to be able to learn in a different environment.
Another common suggestion was for high school retreat to be off campus again, as it was years ago but hasn't been lately. This could give students a more comfortable space to get to know their peers and worship the Lord. Students also had the idea for ongoing paid causal days to help raise money: where one would purchase a wrist-band in the morning and get to wear whatever they wanted -- as long as it's appropriate.
Lastly, students asked for a limit on the amount of work teachers can give on a nightly basis to take home, because this not only stresses students, but also takes away from their social and family life. When a lot of homework is assigned, students cannot develop social and life skills as well as they would with the time they miss out on.
These are all helpful hints that the administration can use to make our school an even better learning environment. They could go a long way in helping us to be happy and functional. We as a student body understand we will not get all of these changes, but we are hoping our voices are heard. We appreciate all who took the time to share their opinions, as well as those who read this article!
