ALJ students enjoy activity periods

By Ryan Rutano
​A transformation has occurred in Arthur L. Johnson High School with the schedule change to A/B scheduling in the 2016-2017 school year. For students, the most exciting part about the new schedule is the activity periods that are now available to students. Activity periods are a 25 minute segment of the day where students can get extra help, have club meetings, do any work in the IMC, or simply hang out in the gym or even the hallways.
Before, students went through school restricted to a path leading students to their classes, but now students have acquired the freedom to explore what Johnson has to offer. For example, students during their activity periods can go visit the courtyard located in the middle of the school. In previous years this courtyard was rarely used, and most students were unaware to even entering the courtyard. Now, students can relax and socialize with one another, and take a break from the routing of the school day.
Students involved in the music program here in Johnson are using the time to improve their talents. Over the course of the week band director Rachel Bollaro has lessons for different music ensembles depending on the day of the week. For instance, on Thursdays musicians who are in the ALJ Crusader Marching Band come during their activity periods to practice and improve their field show for their upcoming competitions. “As a member of the ALJ music program I can absolutely confirm that the activity period is benefiting the band immensely,” said Senior Sectional Leader Lauren Petite. Also, Mr. Hemberger, the new vice principal, said “Activity periods have helped improve the student's academic life and are shaping the culture in ALJ.  Although this concept is fairly new, I believe that over the year teachers and students will refine it in order to create more student opportunities for the future.” Overall, everyone seems to be enjoying the activity periods.