Being in classes eight hours a day is not easy for the average student, but it cannot be much more bearable for the school staff. In addition to doing their jobs, which may range from teaching to filing, the CCHS staff has to worry about the number of children crowding the halls and defiling the classrooms. Contrary to popular belief, the custodians around the schools are not the students’ maids. They are not here to chase behind you to pick up the Pop-Tart wrapper you left lying in front of your locker because you were too lazy to take it to the garbage can three feet away. I have noticed various discarded containers, cartons, and packets left not only in the halls but also in the cafeteria. As much complaining as I hear daily about the roaches, ants, and other frequent Chamblee visitors, I would like to think people would try to help by at least cleaning up after themselves. It is not going to get any better if students simply express their disgust with the maintenance of the school. We need to stand up and take action. One of the best things anyone has ever told me is if you complain about something, make sure you can suggest a solution to fix it.
Well, I am complaining about the filthiness of our hallways, classrooms, and cafeteria, and my suggestion is that students pick up after themselves.
The faculty is also lending a helping hand to try to solve the problem.
On Friday, September 13, Mrs. Lowery and Mr. Walker held all students from leaving C lunch until every table was spotless. Such actions may not solve the problem completely, but they are a start.
Most of us have been in public schools long enough to know that you are expected to do certain tasks yourself. Most of us have also been teenagers and young adults long enough to know people should not have to come behind you and wipe your mouth or burp you after every meal. By the time you learn how to spell your name, you should be able to clean up your own mess. If you have not mastered this important skill, you are way behind in the game of life.
When you go home tonight, think about how much trash you leave at your house to be thrown away. Now think about how much trash you leave to be cleaned up at school. Compare the two. There is probably a significant difference. Do you know why? Is it because you do not respect the school as you do your home? Is it because you know you can get away with your laziness? Well, whatever the case, it needs to stop. You do not have to be a Good Samaritan and throw away every piece of trash you see, but it would be nice if you threw away your own.
So stop and think next time you are tempted to leave that empty lunch tray and forsaken milk carton on the table or that candy wrapper in the hall. Just take them to the trashcans conveniently located in the cafeteria and the halls.
