Debunking Bryn Mawr Myths

Debunking Bryn Mawr Myths

You walk into class the Thursday before Gym Drill, a happy smile on your face, knowing that your teacher cannot assign homework. However, that glee begins to fade as you see your teacher standing up, chalk in hand, heading towards the “Homework” section on the board. As they begin to write the assigned problems, you want to ask, “Isn’t it a no homework weekend?” Unfortunately, you have absolutely no idea whether or not this fabled “No Homework” weekend is legitimate or merely a myth.

As students, we are aware of the many myths at Bryn Mawr, such as no homework nights and having a limit of two tests in one day. In an effort to provide the answers to questions surrounding these supposed policies, I surveyed several students, faculty members, and our Upper School Dean of Students, Ms. Fetting; I also delved into the depths of the Upper School Handbook to find the correct answers to these questions.

First off: “When are the actual No Homework Nights, and are the official No Homework Nights typically respected?”

Student Opinions: One student said, on the matter of being given homework on designated no homework nights, that she gets “very frustrated with teachers... I just get upset because that’s my free time and I’m already stressed enough.”

Faculty Hot Take: With the new schedule this year also comes more regard for various religious holidays as well as a deepened consideration for no homework nights. A faculty member stated, in regards to the schedule changes, “We looked even closer at different religious calendars for this upcoming year,” in an effort to diversify the education and accommodate the needs of all students.

The Handbook Rules: “No homework is assigned for the day school resumes following Thanksgiving, winter break, spring break, and Gym Drill/Bazaar weekend. Students who celebrate religious holidays or have other extenuating circumstances should consult with their teachers or Mr. George for special consideration regarding the due dates for homework, papers, and tests.”

Secondly: “How many tests can I have per day?”

Student’s Opinions: When I asked if most students have ever received more than two tests in one day, a student responded only with a laugh. I took that as a yes.

Ms. Fetting’s Hot Take: In response to my question on what teachers can do to better enforce the “two tests per day” rule, she answered, “We have two resources that, hopefully, aim at addressing this... with the test calendar, the problem is sometimes teachers don’t know which students are in which classes.” For example, if students are taking classes out of order with the traditional curriculum, they should discuss this privately with their other teachers in order to avoid conflicts. Ms. Fetting also discussed the ability students have, if this issue arises, to simply contact their advisor, who will help to reschedule these tests to suit the needs of the student.

Handbook Rules: “Students are not expected to take more than two tests on the same day and should talk to their teachers if this situation arises.”

After hearing many perspectives on these matters, I have come to the conclusion that by informing your teacher or advisor of conflicts, you can often solve these issues. However, I do believe the administration needs to take a closer look at these “myths” and the effects they have on students. I strongly affirm that the ability to have an open dialogue between teachers and students is what differentiates Bryn Mawr as a school, and I hope we can continue this conversation in the future.