Joliet West High School has rolled out exciting new rules and tools this year to help students arrive on time and stay safe! Inspired by changes in other states like California and Virginia, as well as in other districts within Illinois, JTHS is taking big steps to improve attendance and make sure everyone gets to class without delay.

Starting this year, staff and administrators have introduced a high-tech ID scanner system. Security guards and staff will use these scanners to confirm students’ locations, helping keep everyone safe and on schedule. No more worrying about students wandering off or arriving late!

To help eliminate tardies, outside food and drinks from places like Dunkin’ Donuts and Starbucks will no longer be allowed after 8:20 a.m.(or 7:20 a.m. for freshmen), when the first bell rings. If students arrive late with outside food or drinks, they will need to throw them out before entering the building as they will not be allowed in.

If you’re late after the bell, you’ll need to visit the new Student Support Table. There, a staff member meets with individual students to check their attendance, current grades, and class schedule. After a brief discussion, students are required to inform their parent/guardian on the spot of their tardy. Following this, students are escorted to return to class.

Additionally, teachers and admin are also conducting “Tardy Sweeps” — locking classroom doors after the bell so late students have to report to the auditorium and fill out a form explaining why they’re late. Then, staff will escort students back to class.

These new rules are designed to help students arrive on time, stay safe, and succeed in their classes. All of the interactions between student and staff member are tracked to identify patterns and additional support needs. The goal is to create a more organized, secure, and productive school environment for everyone.

Stay tuned for more updates, and remember — arriving on time is key to a successful school year!