This week, the Deseret News asked West High School students and others whether or not closing the school for the Olympics was a good idea.
"I thought it was a good idea. Because of traffic problems, it would be a hassle for students, teachers and parents to hold school during the Olympics."
— Andrew Abeyta
senior
"I think it makes sense, but I'd rather not have the school closed. I understand why they're doing it, but that doesn't mean I like it. I'd rather have a spring break."
— Claryse King
sophomore
"I'm very happy that West is closed because I feel that if there is the slightest risk, then it is much better for children to be at home. Parents need to know where their children are and to know that they are not a mass target for terrorists."
— Cecily Patton
parent of two West High students
"I think it's a good idea because a lot of the events are at the Delta Center. We'll have more people coming to the school during spring break than we would have had during the Olympics because nobody would be able to get here."
— Kate Stanley
junior
"I think it's good because we get to experience the Olympics for the full two weeks. If we were going to school all day and doing homework at night, we wouldn't be able to see any of the events."
— Jessie Berggren
junior
— Fran Craigle
English teacher and journalism adviser
"I think, as it turns out, the Olympic closure is the best thing they could have done, especially considering all the road closures. At first I thought closing the second week and having half-days the first week was OK, but after seeing all the road closures, I changed my mind."
— Jim Powell
business and marketing teacher
Kate Elias is a senior at West High School. If you are a Utah high school student who would like to comment on this topic, send an e-mail to pulse@desnews.com or write to the Deseret News, attention: Susan Whitney.
