At Orono High School, the media center is more than just a place to check out books—it’s a hub for students to focus, study, and collaborate in a space designed for productivity. Recent policy changes have restricted access, allowing only students enrolled in certain online courses to spend class periods there. This new rule has left many students who would benefit from the space unable to use it. By opening the media center to all students, regardless of their class schedule, Orono could create a more inclusive, supportive environment that encourages learning and helps students succeed. After all, a space this valuable should be available to everyone who needs it.

While study halls are available in classrooms, the media center offers an environment much more conducive to studying. With its comfortable seating, natural light, and quieter atmosphere, it provides a space that encourages focus and productivity. I find the media center more inviting and comfortable than a classroom, and it’s an ideal location for both individual work and group collaboration.

Currently, the policy requires students to be enrolled in a blended or online class to access the media center during class periods. Unfortunately, this leaves many students (including those who take online classes through non-Orono platforms like Northern Star Online) without access to the space. As a result, students who would benefit from the media center’s peaceful atmosphere are unable to use it simply because their class isn’t offered through Orono’s online program.

A common argument against expanding access is the limited space and staff available to accommodate more students. In the past, however, the policy allowed any student with an online class to use the media center, as well as a small number of additional students without online classes. Students could sign up for specific days each week which managed demand, ensuring that everyone had a chance to use the space.

While these concerns are valid, I believe they can be addressed with thoughtful planning. I’ve experienced different policies at Orono throughout my tenure as a student, and I can confidently say that having access to the media center made my school day more enjoyable. It wasn’t just a place to study—it was a place to relax and unwind, especially when I didn’t have homework. I used to spend time working on puzzles with a friend during study hall, but with the current policy we no longer get to do that. Even though my friend has a study hall, she doesn’t have an online class and is, therefore, excluded from using the media center.

I believe that, with a little adjustment, Orono could make the media center a space where all students, regardless of their course schedule, can go to study, collaborate, or simply enjoy a quiet break during the day. If Orono prioritizes this, it would create a more inclusive and productive environment for everyone. After all, the media center is a resource for the entire student body, and it should be accessible to all who need it. There’s no reason to limit access to such a valuable space, especially when it can enhance the overall student experience.