Fresh out of summer, the beginning of another school year commences with several new additions. North Atlanta has welcomed new students, teachers, clubs, coaches, and most recently: a new late work policy. Implemented by Atlanta Public Schools (APS), faculty and staff have widely communicated how assignments will be graded if they are not turned in on time. Students and teachers have expressed various opinions on how this policy will affect their future time management and workload.
During the second week of school, North Atlanta held an assembly to elaborate on this year’s new regulations, including late work. The policy states that assignments turned in after the due date can earn a maximum of 80%. Additionally, for every 10 calendar days, another 20% will be deducted. This was updated from the previous procedure when late grades remained at a 20% deduction. “This year they’re cracking down on students with strict deadlines, especially compared to last year,” said Junior Tucker Heaton. “The pressure is on.”
Many Warriors have wondered why this new policy was implemented in the first place. The old policy was put into place because APS wanted students to have enough time to master concepts that take longer to understand. However, the recurring problem was the fact that students would take advantage of this freedom. Teachers were constantly overwhelmed with late assignments at the last minute, leaving them with a case of grade fatigue. IB history teacher Elliot Reid expressed his favor for this year’s rule. “The new procedure provides a level of structure that is needed,” said Reid. “Many teachers suffered because students didn’t prioritize their work.”
While students may show bitterness towards the policy, many also acknowledge the benefits it includes. Last year, several struggled with turning assignments in on time because there weren’t many factors motivating them. Many students admit that this time around, they’ve become more driven about their workload while minimizing late work. Exempting finals has been a privilege many Warriors want to maintain. “I might have to go to sleep a little later, but the new policy pushes me to get my work done and finish strong,” said sophomore Sarah Kate Gleason.
As the school year begins, various new additions have been embraced. Even with contrasting opinions on the new late work policy, APS’s goal of wanting the best for both students and teachers has remained steadfast. Knowing North Atlanta, the Dubs will power through by minimizing late assignments and maximizing productivity.
