The Owatonna High School has a home room system that runs every other Wednesday in the morning and afternoon known as “Compass Time.” Many wonder what the actual purpose of this system is. Principal Kory Kath said, “The two main goals for Compass are to allow students time to connect with another adult to talk about college and career readiness.” It is also a period to talk about social and emotional learning. During the afternoon compass time, students are given the opportunity to teach students useful time management. Granting students the capacity to choose on what they need to work on. Whether that’s retaking a test and asking questions after class, Compass is made to fit everyone’s schedules.
This past year, OHS administration decided to alter this 2024-2025 Compass times. Senior Cameryn Edel said, “They can bring back the morning compass time and schedule because, with so many activities all trying to be on one day, I usually run out of time or cannot go to everything I would like to.” Not many people know that there is still even a morning compass time, but with the exception that there are no activities in the morning, it seems like many students will use that time so they can be involved in even more activities that they would like to be in. Now besides Compass being a time to get students involved in activities, clubs or even just getting assistance, it is also a time to honor those who got things done.
Mr. Kath said, “It is also a time of honor. If you are getting things done and are doing well in school you can take a hybrid and have a bit of extra time before having to go to work, sports or even just having time for yourself.” So, the term “Compass” and the reason it is called this is that it is based on focusing on your own direction and your purpose for that time whether that is improving grades, participation in clubs, or just making connections with either students or teachers or friends that they might not be able to hang out with a lot.
Senior Halle Thesis said, “I think it is a great time for kids that are behind on work, and it works well when students use their time wisely.” Overall, Compass is a time to reach out if students need help or would like to participate in clubs/activities. Compass will not improve any students grade if time isn’t managed correctly and used by the student body. The entire reason behind Compass is not only to improve grades but is about the student body choosing their own path. All to encompass the importance behind building relationships and with staff and students during the designated Compass time.
