Opinion Volume 80 Issue No. 13 TheReview Wednesday, March 25, 1992 — A6 High school students: Stay on right side of the fence The grass sometimes looks greener on the other side of the fence. But, for students at Parkland School, it doesn’t take long for the reality of life on the outside to hit home. Many students don’t realize how many resources are available to them while they attend secondary school. For some students, eaming money is more important. The thrill of being independent, having control of one’s own destiny, leaving behind pressure to fit into a learning environment, is too attractive for some youths. Now, many of those who left high school early are back in a leaming environment, safe with the knowledge that they tried it, could have succeeded, but now understand that to excel in the ’90s takes education, preparation and maturity, and not just in academic excellence. Many secondary schools like Parkland are taking a different approach to learning. We’ve known for years that the days of the three Rs (reading, writing and ‘rithmatic) are far behind us. But how far have senior high schools gone in preparing students to face the world? They’ve actually gone back, in a sense. Back to the grassroots. Back to the home. A new approach to interaction with teachers and parents is breathing new life into some students. Parkland’s 5-5-5 Committee is a good example of how all the players in a student’s life can be used for a variety of essential purposes which contribute to a teenager’s develop- ment. By dealing with issues like substance abuse at school dances, “drop-outs,” and self-esteem, students find they have a voice. They are also finding that what they have to say matters, and that simply airing their opinions can resolve conflicts. One spin-off benefit is the reported effect on teachers — who find the students’ enthusiasm rewarding and inspira- tional. Next week, Parkland is focusing on Wellness Week, a time when the mental health condition of students is a prime consideration. Activities and presentations are designed to encourage, probe and challenge students to consider strate- gies for their social and physical well-being. What makes planned and past activities exceptional is a recognition and acceptance of all students — regardless of goals and interests. Teenagers today don’t realize how wonderful an opportu- nity they have to utilize a support mechanism and deal responsibly with important issues that play a major part of their life. We urge the student body to take advantage of the opportunity presented to them and withhold the urge to discover what’s ‘‘on the other side of the fence.” For many, it’s not fun on the other side of the fence. Too many didn’t “seize the moment” and develop the tools needed to be successful while they were in high school. Letters to the editor on issues of concern to our readers are welcomed by The Review. All letters must be addressed to the editor and bear an original signature of the letter writer. Letters must contain the letter writer's street address and telephone number for verification purposes and not for publication. Letter should not exceed 300 words in length and may be edited for clarity, legality, brevity and taste. T° Review Serving the Saanich Peninsula Since 1912 9726 - First St. P.O. Box 2070 Sidney, B.C. V8L3C9 Sidney, B.C. V8L3S5 656-1151 Publisher: Rory McGrath Editor; Glenn Werkman Reporters: Valorie Lennox Advertising: Corrie Morozoft John Gelder Production Manager: Tamie Sargeant Office Manager: Lori Fitzpatrick Circulation Manager: Wendy Denison SS