According to almost any study or article you read, America is polarized, so wouldn’t it make sense that high schools are feeling divided too?  Hall High School students show a commonality with this perception, that is, they don’t agree! 

Based off the data collected, an overwhelming 75% believed that difference in opinion causes arguments between students. To follow-up, a majority of students had a similar response on why this might be. “Some people have very strong opinions and don’t personally want to hear another point of view.” replied one sophomore. “I get labeled as a racist for holding traditional values on family life and virtue. In reality I’m not a half bad guy and I wish people would get to know me first.” expressed a senior. 

Differences in opinion are causing a lack of important conversations as students feel they can’t share their personal opinion while being respected and seen 59.1% do not see students in separate communities come together often. When asked to elaborate on this, several noted coming together for sports.

“When it comes to athletics, Blue Reign brings everyone from different sports together to cheer on each other. This happens mainly with football and soccer.” A sophomore stated. (Blue Reign is the Student Fan Section organized by leaders nominated by previous senior Reign leaders). Blue Reign brings together all students who would like to participate, students with polar opposite views, interests, friends, can become one community to support the schools’ teams and celebrate the accomplishments achieved by their peers. 

 While a sense of community is somewhat present overall, a majority of students feel that their opinions are not valued by their peers. Yet, 84.6% feel their opinion is respected or seen by others in the Hall community. However, one senior cautions, “My opinion is only valued because it aligns with Hall’s popular beliefs. I feel Hall struggles when faced with differing views.”

63.6% believed that differences in opinion caused arguments between students in their experiences. 45.5% felt they could sometimes have productive conversations with those who have differing views than yourself. 31.8% said yes, they could have productive conversations and 22.7% said they could not have productive conversations with those who have differing views than yourself.
Reasons given included: lack of listening skills, respect and just hearing other opinions. Sound familiar? Yes, these are voiced by many people polled throughout the USA too. “I find it extremely difficult to do so, because some people can be so rude about their opinions.” Having differences in opinion is resulting in a lack of important conversations which need to be had as a society.