This decision stems from growing concerns that students cannot keep up in a class if they are often absent for sports games. Although the administration’s concern for the students is commendable, this policy will only cause more problems. It is an inadequate solution, as many students have difficulty creating a Mods 1-18 schedule. It is completely understandable that the administration wants students to be in class. However, students on sports teams already know that they must work with teachers and coaches to find a way to succeed in both. While the new policy is supposed to be a compromise between teachers and coaches, it punishes student athletes.

The administration can consider other viable solutions. After daylight savings, sunlight lasts until about 8 p.m., so sports games could conceivably begin later, allowing students to spend more time in class. Another solution is that athletes could be given priority to afternoon classes, such as Physical Education, in which making up work would be easier. The goal of P.E. is physical fitness so, missing a P.E. class for a sports game would most likely satisfy its intent.

Ultimately, this is a complex problem that would best be solved by providing more student choice. It is the students who know how much class time they can miss for sports games while maintaining their grades. As Lowell students demonstrate their ability to prioritize on a daily basis, they should also be able to decide their own schedules.