As the new school year kicks off South Windsor High School goes through a series of changes, one of them being the name switch of Homeroom to Bobcat Block. The new school administration wanted to create a stronger connection to the school’s identity and mascot. But the switch from “Homeroom” to “Bobcat Block” wasn’t just about a name.
What was previously called “Homeroom” was the time of the day when all students had a break between classes. It gave students the time to catch up on some work or meet with teachers for extra help.
The purpose of Homeroom, according to Associate Principal Secretary Katherine Schworm, is to “distribute pertinent information to all students.”
While homeroom isn’t a requirement of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), it still supports the principles of NEASC accreditation. Homeroom allows students to have a “well-rounded educational environment that promotes academic excellence” the NEASC stated. Having a Homeroom period also allows teachers and staff to support students both academically and socially.
Last school year, the name Bobcat Block was used to let students know that they could visit other teachers, that weren’t their assigned teachers for that period. However, the name change seems so sudden after many years of having it called homeroom.
Yet, some people dont mind the name change, “It has been a big support for our school spirit,” says Sophomore Adam Alami
Other students and staff members seem to share Alami’s sentiment, agreeing that the name change isn’t a big deal because, after all, it’s just a name.
“If I have to worry about something, I wouldn’t be worried about the name change. There are bigger things to worry about,” South Windsor High School math teacher, Jason Pantages, commented.
For the most part, this change has not impacted students.
“Personally I don’t really mind the name change, I’m probably still going to call it homeroom anyway,” senior Ethan Sands explained.
The name change isn’t completely unprecedented. However, most of the students and staff find the change to not affect their SWHS experience.
