Whether or not students pursue higher education, the size of CPHS’s campus will undeniably influence the type of learning students become accustomed to. Our large high school is a similar size to many small colleges. The large campus has resources that a small campus may not have, but can students keep from falling through the cracks?

A bigger staff, more clubs, and the ability to provide college level courses are just some of the many benefits of attending a big high school like CPHS. Students can find smaller communities by joining sports or clubs and becoming leaders. College level courses provide students an experience of higher academics while still in high school, giving students the opportunity to be more college ready if that is the path they want to pursue.

For a growing district, a large school can provide a bigger capacity for the bigger population. This only becomes an issue when the current capacity starts to run out. As is, the halls can feel pretty crowded during passing period with over 3,000 students trying to get to class. We have to think about the future and if the new additions will stand the test of time.

It could be argued that students would receive more individual attention on a smaller campus. However, where small schools fall short is that they need more outside support and potentially higher commitment to form expectations and curriculum from teachers. Students’ learning habits and ability to adapt to the type of learning environment they are in are bigger factors towards their achievement levels than school size.

Learning in larger class sizes similar to that of a small college is something unique to a big high school. Making a mark can seem intimidating, and each individual is just as much a part of their own success as the school they attend. If students take advantage of teacher resources and make an effort to get involved, it

can be easier to navigate through the masses.