Long and loud have been the voices decrying Grady's disappearing school
spirit, but in the midst of such laments a few say that school spirit has
not vanished, only changed. If school spirit is characterized only by yelling
at length during pep rallies (in order to shorten the next class), fanatical
attendance at all athletic events (while neglecting studies), and a willingness
to acclaim Grady's name (while doing nothing to make her worthy of acclamation)
then school spirit has diminished.
But, if school spirit means encouraging all students to highest achievement in many fields and a quiet pride in the things for which Grady stands while recognizing each student's part in maintaining the standards of Grady, then school spirit is at a peak. School spirit has not disappeared, only matured.
Last year's STAR student was a Grady pupil. Student's pride and pleasure In such an honor demonstrates mature school spirit. Under student leadership, an honor court to combat cheating was begun. Recognization and action on such a problem Is mature school spirit. During desegregation this fall, the student body, again under its own leadership, planned and carried out a program which has helped maintain peace and order, again demonstrating mature school spirit.)
Football games and pep rallies will always be a traditional demonstration of school spirit and an aspect not to be neglected, but school spirit must continue to include all phases of student life. School spirit must spring from individual pride in Grady and a willingness to work to makeGrady worthy of such pride.
(Editor's note: "By Junto" will be a regular column in The Southerner The Ideas expressed are those of the Junto Discussion Group, and in no way reflect on the editorial policy of this paper.)
Administration Emphasizes Stricter Disciplinary Policy
Discipline, always a major concern of the Henry Grady faculty, apparently
will be more rigidly enforced this year.
Many of the procedures wilt remain the same. Students caught truant from classes will be dealt with by the office after being called over the public address system.
An old school rule which will be emphasized is that no smoking is to be permitted on the campus. This has always been the policy, but has not been enforced as rigidly as it will be this term.
A special point brought out by Mr. Roger Derthick, principal, is that, "everyone should be in his proper place at the proper time." Last year there was too much loitering and wandering about; the policy will be to check all permits and to have everyone where they belong.
A new system is also being tried out for arrival of students in the morning. Gradyites who make their entrance before 8:15 will go to the cafeteria. When they are dismissed they will proceed directly to their homerooms. This prevents loitering in the halls and the early morning confusion which generally results when the final bell rings and everyone rushes to homeroom.
These rules, new and old, are instituted to protect the innocent and prevent the harmful from doing damage to the reputation of our school. It is up to each student to uphold and abide by the rules which govern school policy. The high school government can be easily compared to any democratic government with the freedom of liberty and license. Let us strive to make this a record year for Grady with little misbehavior and plenty of hard work and determination.