A Service of The Arrow           Monday March 27, 2000 8:56 PM

ARROW STAFF

A quiet figure stands alone in stony faced, silent vigil. Her hardened eye and ‘make my day’ stare would make Eastwood lower his eyes. She is an enforcer, checking that all within her domain is well, making sure all of her charge go about their business promptly and obediently. She and her kind have been referred to as ‘demon spawn’, are reportedly eternally grumpy, and enjoy causing discomfort to young adults.

No, I’m not describing some military reform school run by deviant nuns and former female East German athletes. The scene is that of Flathead High’s own halls, and the cruel, tough women are none other than our very own hall monitors and study hall advisors.

The above is a very accurate description according to many students here at Flathead who seem to believe that these women’s sole pleasure in life is to send them back to class if they don’t have a pass.

But these fine women aren’t being given enough credit. First of all, look at what they have to deal with every day — namely, us. If you think Flathead’s staff is disagreeable, take a look at its students, especially the side the hall monitors deal with day in and day out. They are greeted with self-righteousness ("I know its against the rules but it’s ok if I do it just this once"), disrespect ("get out of my way"), obstinacy ("I don’t have to go to class right now; I’m talking to my friends"), and blatant disregard for authority ("I don’t care, I’m going out that door anyway").

But the worst thing they have to endure is the mysterious stench that sometimes permeates the halls. Sometimes this foul odor comes from cooking classes’ meals gone horribly awry, or sack lunches buried in lockers under unfinished homework and left to rot. Other times, no one really knows why the corridors trigger the gag reflex. This is enough to make anyone surly. Despite all this, a vast majority of the time, these over-worked and under-appreciated women are smiling, friendly, considerate, and willing to help you out.

They do much more than just enforce the rules. They also care about the students at Flathead. They are more than willing to listen and give advice and as a result many students have recognized these wonderful ladies as the resources that they are. Some students have gotten to know them and even formed intimate, trusting friendships. Often these ladies are easier to approach than a teacher or other staff member, and students feel they can talk freely without fear of repercussion. They can be counted on to give honest advice, and a straight answer.

Don’t just dismiss these women who roam our halls, and don’t treat them with disrespect. A simple smile or hello in the halls can brighten their day. Who knows, maybe the next time they see you cutting class and heading to your car, they won’t write you up.

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