It is evident that the average American school atmosphere has changed over the past few years. Many schools have become more inclusive in regards to minorities while some schools still struggle.

“Together, we aspire to develop each student’s talents in a safe, nurturing, and challenging educational environment to inspire a lifelong love of learning,” District 38 said.

Many can agree that the consistent shift of online learning to in-person learning is difficult. Post-Pandemic schooling has adapted, creating an environment where students and teachers foster their relationships. 

“The school environment has definitely changed since covid-19, teachers are more invested in their students and more relationships with friends are being cultivated,” Edwin Flores 12 said. “We realized the importance of those around us and I don’t think school will ever be the same.”

Flores is a student-athlete who continues to create friendships with students every day. His experience with teachers differs from other students. Flores finds the teachers to be supportive however that isn’t always the case for all students. 

“When I need help I go to YouTube to learn, the teachers are too busy to help,” Sarah Algertan 11 said.

There are many other students that feel the same, it’s easier to not bother the teacher; however, taking time to learn without a teacher isn’t always efficient. 

“A special connection is required between a student and teacher to be completely comfortable asking questions,” Juelz Clements 11 said.

Requesting extra help isn’t always an easy task for students. Having a healthy and safe environment is vital to an increase in educational growth.

“I feel like I am in the 2% of color here. There’s not a lot of us here and they don’t really understand what we have to go through even to be here because a lot of us moved here from not to good places like I did,” Clements said. “I’ll just be walking to class, and the administrators, they just look at me weird like just watching my every move.”

Clements and his friends don’t always feel welcome in the Lewis-Palmer school district. At the end of the day, Lewis-Palmer high school is a welcoming place for some, and for others, it’s just a separate experience. Many hope that the district acts on these concerns and makes Lewis-Palmer a better place.

 “I hope the district starts to treat me as equal and makes sure their students feel welcome,” Clements said. “If anything, listen to all of your students, not just the majority. Listen to those who are struggling and feeling ignored.”