In the new semester Loretto introduced half days on Wednesdays, these days were made up of four classes during the first half of the day and at 11:30 the students would go to lunch and the school day ended. 

However as the spring semester began students were made known that half days were a thing of the past. 

Senior Natalia Gallardo said, “I was really upset, I was able to do college apps or get ahead on homework plus it served as a break from the strenuous task of being in front of a screen for eight hours.”

As students sit in front of a screen for eight hours everyday a break is essential for your mental and physical health. 

Sophomore, Gianna Guerrero said, “I miss having extra free time where I didn’t have to sit staring at my computer all day, my eyesight has gotten worse I have never had to use glasses but sitting at a screen all day has caused me to get headaches and sitting and staring at a computer all day is more tiring that going to actual school.” 

Loretto students are known for their hard work and their stamina for completing homework but now circumstances changed and the course load and school hours must change in a way students are able to balance their school life, their social life, as well as finding time for themselves. 

Mia Badillo, sophomore said, “I think half days could also be beneficial to the teachers because it allows them time to focus on lesson plans, grade assignments, or just take time for themselves as well.” 

This year, teachers also faced the challenge of learning how to teach online and not having students in a classroom. 

With teachers and students alike wanting a mid-week break could half days be reinstated at Loretto?  

Sister Buffy said, “No, we have addressed the problem of the eight classes in one day by changing the schedule for the second semester, If we were to institute half days again this semester, we would have to add an additional six days of instruction to the calendar and move graduation and the last day of school to a later date to complete the required days and minutes of instruction for the year.”

Loretto angels are facing one of the toughest years yet academically, mentally, and socially, a break from the screen and a time to re-wind is essential.