For many years, high schools across the nation have tried to find ways to give their students the best opportunities to be successful. Many have tried different things, and some students have not cared enough to make themselves better.

At Marcos de Niza, the new and improved practice of conference hour was reinstated. Both students and teachers can benefit from this time to make themselves better educated. 

“I hope students use conference hour so they can get help from their teachers,” said Mrs. Adam, “It is a great way for students to get the help they need.”

Every morning at promptly 7:30 a.m. students can visit their teachers to get help on homework or ask questions about assignments.  In 2006, conference hour was available for all students, but when the school changed back to a traditional style, conference hour was lost. In an attempt to help students achieve their potential grades, conference hour was put back on the schedule.
“I am looking forward to having conference hour with my teachers because it will give me the opportunity I need to get extra help for my classes,” said sophomore Chayla Bonelli.

The new plan was reinstated by the administrative staff because they felt like it would help the students out in the long run. 

“Conference hour gives students an opportunity to stay up on their grades. I also believe it gives teachers the ability to make students come to make up work. It will force students to be more responsible,” said assistant principal John Dolan.

Administrators also believe it will help the students perform better academically. Last year, many students were not making the extra effort to do their work. This year, student have no excuse for not getting their work done on time.

To get a bigger picture on the view of who thinks conference hour is a good idea, an informal poll was taken, and 25 students were asked on their opinion on conference hour. Students of all years were asked whether they thought conference hour was a good idea and if they plan to take advantage of it. 

Out of 25 people, only one person thought that conference hour was not a good idea. Nineteen of the 25 student thought conference hour was a good idea, but they confessed to not have taken advantage of it yet.  Across the board, students from all classes think that conference hour will give them an advantage on their school work and help them succeed.