As of Monday, the 21st of April 2025, the digital hall pass system known as SmartPass has officially replaced physical hall passes in South Windsor High school.
The digital pass system was available as a trial for staff to use prior to April break, but as of this week, the pass has fully replaced physical paper passes.
The SmartPass system is a step forward in stopping student meet-ups during class hours, but the official implementation of the pass has brought a variety of reactions.
The group with the strongest opinions about this change is unsurprisingly, students.
“I like it because we don’t have to carry pieces of paper, and I think it’s unique,” freshman, Kyson Petgrave said.
Students have shown a split opinion on the pass system. Those in support of it claim it is more convenient and easier for both the student and teacher.
However, those with a strong stance against the pass system have voiced their criticisms with how it can be inconvenient on the student’s end, as well as teachers struggling to adapt to the new program.
“It’s very difficult to create your own pass to leave and teachers don’t really know how to navigate it,” sophomore Aubrey Pugrab said.
In addition to the lack of convenience, many students have criticized the supposed invasions of privacy they see in the program.
“Teachers are able to track your activity in a spreadsheet,” senior Max McDonld, said. “It’s an invasion of privacy.”
Despite only being implemented for a week, the SmartPass has already brought its fair share of strong opinions.
Was this change a mistake? Or will this truly improve South Windsor High School?
SmartPass is available from both the student and teacher end, allowing students to create their own passes
