Change has always played a prominent role in the culture of Greenhills, especially in recent years. From the remodeling of various parts of the building to changing bell schedules to responding to the latest COVID-19 guidance, Greenhills students have learned to adapt to the ever changing environment.

Recently, school administration announced possible plans to rework the upper school advisory system. 

“We brainstormed multiple ways of changing the advisory system,” said Dean of Students Tom Ward. “Currently, we are trying to decide which system would best fit our community.” 

Currently the administration has two ideas for changing the advisory system. The first focuses on mentorship between grades.

“Some schools do a mix-grade advisory,” said Ward. “Your advisory could consist of three freshmen, three sophomores, three juniors, and three seniors and you would stay with the advisor for four years.”

The second idea focuses more on grade level interactions.

“Other schools have a system where you get an advisor in ninth grade,” said Ward. “Then, you receive a new advisor in tenth grade and stay with that advisor for three years.”

The possible changes to the advisory system received mixed opinions from faculty members. 

“[Advisory] could use a revisiting,” said sophomore advisor Eric Gajar. “However, I like being with one grade, but I do see the value in going up with one grade.”

While some faculty said being with one grade has its benefits, others see value in having the mixed grade advisories.

“Multi grade levels could be good,” said junior grade dean Janelle Sterling. “I think it will help the younger students acclimate to the upper school a little more easily and it gives the older students a chance to mentor.”

Students also have mixed opinions when asked about the possibility of changing the advisory system.

“I like advisory time now,” said Nate Burke ‘23, “It gives me the opportunity to socialize with my friends in between classes and acts as a time to unwind.”

While some students like its current format, others said change is good.

“I think it would be more beneficial to change the [advisory system],” said Leo Applegate ‘23. “It would be nice to have the time be used for more academic related activities.”

Others felt no advisory system is ever going to be perfect for everyone.

“The current system works for some, but not for others,” said Alex Ye ‘24. “It really depends on the individual on how they use their time and what’s best for them.”

Since placement in advisories tends to be random, the school has also tinkered with the idea that people can join other advisories.

“We are giving students the option to switch advisories at the end of the year,” said Ward, “This exit ramp concept will allow people to leave advisories where they feel they don’t click.”