Rocky welcomed a new principal, Dr. Ulrich and new vice principal, Mr. Campbell at the start of the year. With all of the new changes, Rocky’s staff has had to adjust to a lot in a very short time. Mrs. Foster, is an English teacher, who has taught for 20+ years. Foster has picked up that the new staff are working hard, and have changed the atmosphere, letting off a more “serious” and academic vibe. She says, “They’re quite visible outside of the main office and island compared to some administrative staff in the past.” Foster has also noticed the cell phone policy change, and she believes that it “should have been enforced a long time ago.” Foster said, “However, I do think 6th period would be an okay time to ‘breathe,’ but I also see the reason to avoid it all day.” Foster would like them to improve how many students linger in the hallways and restrooms, instead of heading to class. Lastly, Foster would like for them to build a supporting relationship with the staff, and help them support the students.
Mr. Vogel, a chemistry teacher at Rocky, who has taught for 7 years, believes that there are lots of positive changes to Rocky, so far, but, “With all change, there are some growing pains,” he stated. Vogel said that he agrees with their choice to bring back the basic rules, such as the cell phone policy, stating, “I think it is important that students keep them off and out of sight because they are a big distraction to the learning environment.” The biggest change that Vogel would like to see improve in Rocky is school culture. He says, “It would be awesome to see more students have pride in Rocky, and carry that pride in school, but also out into the community.” Vogel said that one change he’d like them to focus on is getting to know the kids at Rocky because they have varieties of students. Vogel believes that, “It is very important to start with learning about our kids and who our kids are to make the most impactful high school experience for them.”
