The LFHS freshman study halls look different this year compared to years past. Instead of a regular study hall period, some freshmen engage in a class called “Scout Seminar,” an interactive period led by various teachers to enhance study habits and promote good learning environments.
Scout Seminar has been in the works for decades now, but debuted this year. This course was implemented to help freshmen with the transition to high school. It helps them navigate the differences like the larger workload, more peers in school, greater expectations, and the build up for college. Coach Cat, Mrs. Flangel, Mrs. Goodman, Mrs. Rebecca, Mr. Hain, Mr. Bassill and Mrs. Bielski each lead classes.
“Scout Seminar was made to give students the skills and support needed from transitioning to high school and allow them to have the best chances for success,” Cat said.
Mrs. Flangel starts her class with a “bellringer” each day. This allows her students to have a bit of collective fun and reflect on their day so far. After they complete the bellringer, they each set two daily goals for themselves.
“Scout Seminar comes with the changes that come with high school and the patterns of behavior that will lead to success, but it will also be a place to learn about the culture of LFHS and how each [student] can find their place in this culture,” Mrs. Flangel said.
On the other hand, Coach Cat begins class by giving her students a five-minute grace period. This quick window of time is free to the freshmen as they decide what they would like to do at the beginning of class.
After the grace period is over, Cat will check the students’ grades and if they have any missing assignments. Depending on the results of the check-in, the students will then do what they need to in order to be successful.
During the freshmen’s work time, there are methods that the teachers use to get the kids to get their work done. Cat does a 15-minute work time followed by a series of breaks throughout class.
Mrs. Flangel has a different approach.
“My students earn a break after finishing their work. We track how much students have achieved in a collective spot on the front whiteboard,” she said.
During their work time, there is still the opportunity to go to the MRC, SRC, or anywhere needed to get help. Most seminar classes include teacher assistants.
The upperclassmen act as tutors to these students and are an additional resource whenever needed. Not only do these teacher assistants help with homework but also model the behavior expected in high school and allow these underclassmen to build connections with upperclassmen.
“I really like Scout Seminar. I enjoy having someone checking in on my grades and missing assignments. I also love the independence that comes with this course,” freshman Sawyer Rice said.
