BY IAN MCGEE
Staff Writer

Three weeks into this school year, the decision was made to cut two classes in the Art department. 11 students were affected by the cut of the AP Art History and Power Technology in the beginning of September.

According to Stephanie McHugh, supervisor of the guidance department, the classes were cut due to low enrollment in several areas of the school.

“When we did course selection last year, we were very clear that courses with less than 15 students might not run for the school year.” McHugh said. “We tried to look for the classes which would upend the fewest number of students.”

Although guidance and the administration did their best to help students understand, many of those affected were taken aback about how last- minute the course changes were.

“They told us on Wednesday, and by Friday, the class was over. It was really upsetting, since I had been waiting since freshman year to take the class,” senior Syrina Nuemah said of AP Art History.

Nuemah said that since the cut took place on the third week of school, the deadline for any and all course changes, she thought it would be too hard to switch into another credit. She was placed into a study hall.

“I really think they should have tried to change it before school started, because things could have been more organized and were very last minute,” Nuemah said.

McHugh said the cuts could not be made any sooner, due to discrepancies in the availability of teachers this year.

“Changes in positions, temporary and long-term leaves, the need for substitutes, and new staff joining us, all can come very late. Although we would have liked to have made this move sooner, it just wasn’t possible this time around,” McHugh said.

Principal Walter Graves agreed, adding that the cuts also were necessary to prepare for the Keystone standardized tests.

“The statement that classes would not be changed after June 30unfortunately was changed, as the need for teachers in Keystone study halls forced us to cut some classes with low numbers to properly prepare students.” Graves said.

Graves said students have been understanding about the situation. 

“It’s unfortunate that these cuts happened after the school year started, but I really appreciate the cooperation and understanding from everyone involved.” Graves said.