Fauquier High School’s (FHS) lunch policy has been reinforced by newly hired interim principal, Donna Guzman. The policy states that all students should eat in the cafeteria unless there has been prior permission not to. “It's the same policy that existed all the way back [from] when I started here, around 10 years ago,” Guzman claims, referring to when she was first working at FHS. Many students and staff are referring to the policy as “the new lunch policy,” but the rule has always been in place.“I think that over time it just wasn't enforced,” Guzman adds.

The cafeteria is not always the best fit place for a student. Teenagers with 504’s, IEPS or anxiety can be excused from the cafeteria with granted permission, making the policy flexible in various cases. Another instance could be a student staying in a teacher's class to take a test, do a project or anything academic wise. These situations are allowed as long as there is approval.

“It’s the safety,” Guzman states. Knowing where each student is will always be a priority at FHS. If students are wandering off during lunch blocks, then the school environment will be unorganized and unsafe. Not only that, but food outside of the cafeteria can create messes that no one wants to deal with. This is why it’s crucial for students to stay in the cafeteria unless otherwise instructed.

The lunch policy was made for overall safety during the three lunch blocks. The enforcement of this guideline has made a big impact on the overall environment in the school. Guzman has been the push FHS needed for a tranquil atmosphere during lunch around the school.