Many people believe that all young people are a little behind when it comes to maturing or learning, so how behind is our community? Many kids and teachers have moved from other districts and think that Rockford has some serious catching up to do. 

   “Yes, I think the expectations for Guilford students are extremely low,” said Joey Spielman, sophomore. “It’s honestly kind of sad how little they expect us to perform.”

   However, students who have been in RPS (Rockford Public Schools) their whole life seem to have a different perspective, including that the classes are too hard, or move too fast. These students have not wanted to be specifically mentioned. 

   While high school is a switch for everyone, and is supposed to be harder than previous chapters of student’s learning careers, some are saying that going to Guilford High School is easier than their middle school learning. 

   “I came from a private school where the rules were very strict, varying from our dress code to putting phones up in the front of the classroom before we sat down,” said Avery Staaland, sophomore. “It feels like a free-for-all here and it’s way easier to get away with things.”

   Even staff agrees that the system in which Rockford conducts itself is incredibly chaotic and could even be considered uncontrolled. I personally have seen more fights this semester than I can count on one hand and smell marijuana almost everyday when I walk in the hallways. It’s possible these two things are playing a great effect on students’ learning abilities. 

   Not everything about RPS is bad, though. For instance, many kids that come from private schools prefer it because of the doors it opens up for students, and the relationships with teachers. 

   “We have a lot of different AP and honors classes we can choose to take,” said Staaland. “There’s more opportunities such as electives, clubs, sports, and the school feels more welcoming to make connections and try new things.”