By Maire Crooks, The Current Co-Editor-in-Chief
To meet the new budget requirements of the 2024-2025 school year, Howard County has implemented a new, revolutionary classroom model: standing workspaces. Due to the increase in students per class caused by said savings, students will be expected to stand in classrooms.
The county states that this change will benefit not only the financial office but the students as well. The vertical model will help to combat obesity, according to Harvard Health: “after a meal, blood sugar levels return to normal faster on days a person spends more time standing.” Standing can also “reduce the risk of shoulder and back pain.”
While the old seated desks will be donated to underprivileged school systems to improve neighboring communities, unfortunately, new standing desks will not be utilized due to the insufficient budget and lack of classroom space. Instead, students are encouraged to bring a hard surface, like cardboard or wood, to lean up against their body for writing. Howard County will provide further recommendations on accommodations for the new positioning as the school year approaches.
The River Hill student body is concerned about the sightlines in the back of the classroom. A sophomore expressed worries about taller people blocking their view. “I feel like it will be like in the pit seats at concerts where if I do not secure a barricade spot, I can barely see.”
They went on to express a neck injury they experienced due to craning their head to catch a glimpse of their favorite artist. “I hope [my injury] does not reoccur from trying to see my AP English teacher,” they articulate.
In an attempt to solve this problem, Howard County is also implementing a measuring system. The school nurse will measure the height of all students throughout the first week and provide the information to teachers who will then create seating charts according to their stature. The county has strongly encouraged all instructors to place the taller students in the back of the classroom and the shorter students in the front.
Others feel that this new policy is blatantly disregarding those with mobility issues. “I think it is ableist,” mentions a junior. Howard County has not addressed any accommodations for those who cannot stand for long periods of time. Many community members have been writing letters to the Board of Education, urging them to discuss this issue.
However, some support the new decision, regardless of budget. A River Hill gym teacher is enthusiastic about the change: “I love to stay active, and this is a great way to incorporate fitness into every classroom, not just the 50 minutes I spend with my students!”
They continue, stating “At home, I have a standing desk and walking pad that I love. I can’t wait to experience the strength exercises it will take to be able to work with no desk at all, I think it will be a fun experiment to test my physical limitations.” They explain that they are currently discovering which muscles need strengthening to hold their laptop up in the air while standing to properly prepare for the policy change.
As for how the policy will turn out, only time will tell. Teachers, students, and parents alike are all currently navigating how to best prepare for this change, but are confident that the River Hill community will be able to adapt and overcome the new challenge stronger than ever.