Do you think school is just about subjects, or is it the essential place where opportunities truly begin to take shape? For students at Apex High, some believe that not only does education play a huge role in their lives, but attending school daily also provides numerous opportunities for students to learn and engage. Apex High offers a perfect place to socialize with other students and engage in activities, such as electives or after-school activities like sports and clubs. The school motto is to stay PEAK (Prepare, Engage, Ambitious, and Kind), so by following this motto, students find ways to create a comfortable and productive environment for everyone on campus.

A student who attends Apex High School said, “School is fun because not only am I learning something new, but I’m also getting to see my friends every day.” The response supports the view that students perceive school as a place where they can socialize and learn simultaneously. A member of Key Club at Apex High School said, “I’m having fun with volunteering, and it helps my future because it helps with my resume. Basically, a win-win.” This quote explains how Apex High School offers many opportunities to guide a pathway to the future or towards goals later in life. A student, Bryan Rios, who has carpentry as his elective, said, “I enjoy school because I’m seeing my friends every day, and my class is always fun since we always build things. I’m also learning new skills from this, too.” As stated, some students view school as a fun place to socialize and learn new things that can contribute later in life.

However, not all students share this positive outlook. Some students view school primarily as just a place to learn, feeling there’s little fun to be found. Students may also feel stressed out when trying to prepare for tests or quizzes, finishing their homework or projects, and trying to keep up with their grades.

A student who was interviewed said, “I think school is a good place to learn, but at the same time, I don’t feel like I’m getting enough free time when I get home because of the amount of homework I receive.” The statement refers to how students may feel like their free time after school is being stripped away due to homework or projects that require time and effort. One Apex High student said, “I feel like school is more boring because whenever I’m done with my work or when I’m trying to take a break from something, I have nothing to do but go on my phone but now I can’t with the new phone ban.” Students may feel like they are not getting actual break time from doing work, so it can cause their views towards Apex High School or any other schools to be like a “trapped” building due to the recent law that got passed banning cellphone use during classes.

Apex High School students all have different views towards school. Some people may view school as a positive and productive place to help their future goals, while there are some people who view school negatively. Many factors can affect students’ feelings and views towards school, but by utilizing resources like school counselors to express feedback, students and staff can work together to ensure Apex High remains a beneficial, engaging, and enjoyable place for everyone.