Music was played over the school’s public address system after first period on Nov. 22. While it shocked students and staff, Principal Jeremy Christian was not surprised. As of Dec. 2, Niles West will play music during passing periods again.
“We are trying to build a very energetic build and culture for our students. I want our students to have fun when they come to school, so I think the music is a way for them to not walk down the halls and not be so silent like it is. It is just not exciting or building a positive culture,” Christian said.
Another reason why music in the halls are being brought back is to reduce tardies, according to Christian. At the last minute of each passing period, Christian plans to play Tetris music to notify students to get to their classrooms. Psychology teacher Scott Baum believes that this will be a beneficial tool to get students to class on time.
“Well it’s funny because we are talking about classic conditioning right now and if we can condition the kids to know that there is one minute left, I think it would be funny if my students started sprinting to my class,” Baum said.
Some students do not agree with the return of music being played during passing periods.
“I am surprised Christian is playing music again because I feel like it got backlash last time they played it over the speaker. Also, I don’t enjoy the music playing over the speaker because I feel like nobody listens to the music in general, including me. I have my AirPods in during passing periods, and when he does play music I can barely listen to my friends when we talk with each other,” senior Mary Sarkis said.
In prior years, music often played during passing periods, including selected world music during international weeks. Passing period music was abruptly halted when an inappropriate song was played Dec. 8 2021. To prevent a similar situation from reoccurring, Christian is implementing a new system called Neptune.
“We have a company called Neptune and we have contracted with them so we only play censored music. They will not play anything that is explicit because it goes through their system,” Christian said.
Students will eventually get a chance to provide their input on the type of music played according to Christian. Answer the poll below to show what music you want to be played.
