On Thursday, August 14, new MV assistant principal Mr. Robert Grider led the annual class disciplinary meetings during periods 2, 3, 7 and 8 in the Schweinfurth Theater.

This year marks Mr. Grider’s first year in his new position after six years in the science department. Disciplinary meetings were Mr. Grider’s first task in the new role.

“To be honest, when I came in, I didn’t know how well students were going to listen to me [and the] staff as well,” described Mr. Grider. “I think that the response was really good.”

Since the new year has started, some students have made note of changes in terms of discipline this year as opposed to last.

“I wasn’t expecting to come back and [discipline] be so strict,” said Addi McMillen, ’27.

“I think the approach this year is very focused on respect. I believe this is a good thing,” explained Madalynn Walker, ’27. “Respect has been very lacking in the previous years of MVTHS.”

“I am in full support of all the changes being made,” explained Madalynn Adams, ’27. “I have seen most kids grumble and complain but I personally think it is doing wonders.”

Moving from teaching in the science department to assistant principal may seem jarring to some, but Mr. Grider is settling well into the new role.

“I think overall it’s been really good so far,” Mr. Grider shared. “My job has been making sure that everybody’s doing that piece and I think we are and I think we’re going in the right direction.”

One statement made by Mr. Grider during the presentation is that the junior class is the current class with the most discipline issues.

“Every year, you’re supposed to be more mature,” said Mr. Grider. “Hopefully by the time you’re a junior or senior we shouldn’t have to worry about behavior, because you should know how to behave by then,” Mr. Grider added.

At the presentation, Mr. Grider was sure to make note about his expectations for the student body.

“There might just be more referrals because we’re holding kids to higher expectations,” explained Mr. Grider. “I hope that there is less discipline and referrals that have to be written.”

Mr. Grider stated that what he said at the presentation has been put into action.

“The problem is that more freedom comes more responsibility, many kids at MV are not mature enough to understand that,” explained Brenna Timmons, ’27.

“I haven’t been disciplined this year, however I’ve seen teachers becoming more strict on the cell phone and dress code policies,” explained Kennedy Bax, ’27. “I think it’s a little frustrating to deal with, however I can’t be upset with teachers for doing their job.”

Mr. Grider began the meeting by firmly stating that he is not the same as Mr. Koehnke, and will handle certain things differently from him.

“I hope that they understood that I’m all business. I’m just trying to do my job the best I can,” explained Mr. Grider.

“I can see a difference between now and last year, there are stricter rules and it can be very irritating to some,” described Taylor DeSmith, ’27.

“My thoughts are that Mr. Grider handles issues well,” said Iylie Harris, ’27. “I have seen Grider control arguments. He has separated people and calmed disputes.

Student opinions on the discipline this year varies, with some welcoming the new changes and others having a harder time adjusting.

“Since the rules have gotten more strict, many students are fighting them, claiming how unfair it is,” said Miley Johnson, ’27.

“Mr. Grider has altered rules about eating in the library, standing at lunch, and more,” said Ernie Dunkin, ’27. “Hopefully, Mr. Grider can redeem himself with something students like inverse to the amount of disciplinary action being taken.”

“We are focusing much more on the important little details that get into the whole point / our slogan of MVTHS,” explained Paige-Lynn Watson, ’27.

Many students are focused on the rules regarding phones during school hours, with some disagreeing with how they are being handled.

“Last year, teachers didn’t care if we had our phones out as long as they ‘couldn’t see them.’ This year, if they see them, they’ll take it,” explained Kennedy Bax, ’27.

“I have seen many people get their phones taken,” described Jenna Hamson, ’27. “Although it can be frustrating, phones shouldn’t distract you at school.”

The job of assistant principal can be challenging, with student infractions playing a large part.

“I’m trying to make [MV] the safest place I can,” said Mr. Grider. “I’m trying my best here and I respect you guys, but there are expectations that we have to meet.”

Mr. Grider believes that the year has gone well so far in terms of student behavior.

“I’m just really proud of the student body,” said Mr. Grider. “I’m excited to keep seeing how well you guys are doing.”