The healthy balance rule restricts students from taking more than four advanced classes in a semester. It was put in place to ensure students have a balanced life in and out of school. Cypress High School created this rule for students who are overly focused on academics and struggle to balance time for friends, family, and activities outside of school, which can sometimes hinder their ability to maintain good mental health. Principal Jennifer Brown said, “We wanted students to have a good, positive life and get into college, so we decided to make a policy that will help them with both.”
Even though the healthy balance rule restricts students from taking a certain number of honors, dual enrollment, and AP classes, it also encourages students to find time to participate in outside activities like sports or clubs. Class of 2027 counselor Mrs. Tina Chairez explained, “There are things and programs that students can be a part of outside of school. Some students go to other colleges, or they enroll in internships over the summer. So I think if a student is really aggressive and wants to be successful and wants to do more, there are plenty of opportunities outside of Cypress High School.”
Chairez added, “I think [the rule] is beneficial. I believe that students have immense dreams and aspirations, which are both important and incredible. But I think they sometimes suffer a lot mentally because they’re overwhelmed and they don’t link the pressure they put on themselves.” She emphasized that the rule helps students’ overall well-being while allowing students to have academic success. Brown shared, “Now what we’re seeing is students are saying, ‘I’m choosing things that bring me joy. I’m choosing things that I’m passionate about, and I’m focusing on that, and I’m not feeling that bad stress.’ They’re stressed, but it’s good stress because it’s leaning them towards something they love and enjoy versus just stressed because ‘I have to do everything.’”
On the other hand, some students have mixed feelings about the healthy balance rule. Sophomore Sophie Kim said, “I think it’s good for students to make sure they’re not pressuring themselves between classes, but I think it can also be frustrating for people who want to challenge themselves.” Junior Liana Arcilla stated, “I think the rule is not so effective. I think it serves as a good reminder to avoid taking too many advanced classes, but at the same time, I know many students who would want to take five to six advanced classes.”
Since the healthy balance rule was put in place to help protect students, it made students think carefully about the classes they want for the following year. Kim stated, “I know for me it was hard to make a balance for my junior schedule with AP and dual enrollment classes.” Knowing that the healthy limits rule was in place, while choosing classes, Arcilla said, “I got to reflect and question myself if I could handle the workload, or if I am willing to work hard in the class? I avoided taking classes that would seem ‘unnecessary.’”
Although some students want to push themselves by taking more advanced classes, the healthy balance rule is in place to help protect students and create a healthy balance.
