Pleasant Valley High School students are often recognized for their ability to balance overwhelming school schedules and extracurriculars on their own. Managing time can be one of the most challenging parts of high school. However, the high school may be doing more than previously thought to help students.
Although students at Pleasant Valley High School work to excel academically, students typically have jobs outside of school as well. Contrary to how students responded in a survey regarding whether PV provides schedules that are accommodating for working students, it appears as though Pleasant Valley may be very aware of its students’ schedules. In a survey with 90 total respondents, 61 percent of Pleasant Valley seniors voted yes when asked if they had a job.
It is not uncommon for seniors in high school to be working to earn their own money, as well as working to earn an education. Senior Jenna Riordan commented that Pleasant Valley does an adequate job of supporting those with jobs. “I can usually take care of things at school,” she commented, “and I think PV does a good job of providing students with study hall and time to talk with their teachers.” She said that she typically works about 10 hours a week during season, but works more during the summer when her schedule is more open.
Lucas Law, another Pleasant Valley senior, commented that even though he works 20-40 hours per week, “I do not have periods 6 or 7 so I get out of school early, allowing me to work more hours.” The freedom that students have to pick their own classes allows for a schedule that is more compatible with working students.
Though both seniors concluded that Pleasant Valley thus far has done a sufficient job in being flexible with student schedules and jobs, they also commented on how the system is not perfect. Riordan said, “I think it would be beneficial for students to be provided with more time during the day, rather than after, to get work done.” She also commented that many kids do not read during the assigned 15 minute reading portion of the day, and noted that “this time could be used for doing homework.”
Although Pleasant Valley High School is known for being a rigorous school, its students work hard on their own outside of school as well. According to its senior class, Pleasant Valley High School is doing an adequate job of being flexible with senior schedules.
