Have you ever wondered what’s locked behind the doors of high school? Well, you’re in luck fellow stranger! Today, we will be explaining the fabulous wonders of high school. We recently read a book called “Speak” by Laurie Halse Anderson in which many lies are discussed in what teachers will tell you at school. We have picked five lies that the main character, Melinda, presents, that we either agree or disagree with.


“1. We are here to help you”is one of the lies Melinda mentions. We disagree with Melinda because our school has enforced a program in order to help us with our problems and needs. As a personal example, we have been victims of bullying in secondary one and our tutors came through with ideas and solutions to overcome this horrendous situation. We understand as to why some students believe this is a lie because some might not have the courage to open up to others, for example Melinda.


“2. You will have enough time to get to your class before the bell rings”is another lie we are told in the book. We disagree with Melinda because at our school, we have a 10-minute break between each period and our lockers are close to most of our classes which allows us to get to class in time. Based on our personal experiences, we have had enough time to go to the bathroom, eat a snack, get our books, and show up to class on time. Despite our arguments, we understand why Melinda says this is a lie because she has difficulties finding her classes which leads her into being late.


“3. The dress code will be enforced”is another rule Melinda thinks is not respected. We agree with Melinda and the fact that this rule is not respected because many students at our school do not respect the dress code, in which the skirt must be at a certain length above your knee, and you are only allowed to wear blue or black socks. Based on our observations, we have noticed that the majority of the students, including us, do not respect the “sock rule”. For example, we often wear bright pink and yellow socks. Another example would be that one of our friends has worn their skirt shorter than the required length and has not been confronted about it. We understand why the school will tell us this to keep a positive image and encourage students to attend their school.


“4. No smoking is allowed on school grounds” is, despite being a rule, also not respected according to Melinda. We agree with Melinda because supervisors can’t be everywhere in the school, making it easy for students to smoke. A situation that we have encountered includes some students vaping in the school’s bathrooms. The Federal Government has enforced the law that prohibits smoking in public places such as schools, which explains why the teachers remind us of this rule and feel the need to inform us.


Last but not least, “10. These will be the years you look back on fondly” is something Melinda doesn’t agree with. We disagree with Melinda’s opinion because we believe that your teenage years will be a time you will never forget. Thinking back to secondary 1, we went on a school field trip (jouvence) where many memorable moments were made. A specific moment was when we were all gathered around the skating rink and having the time of our lives talking to our friends. Obviously, Melinda wouldn’t agree with us because she has no true friends and spends her time hidden in the old janitor’s closet.


On a final note, we have devoted our precious time, so you could learn the truths hidden behind the walls of high school. We have shared our thoughts and experiences regarding the lies Melinda tells us and had reasons for our opinions. Do you agree with us? (to be read in Dora’s voice). We hope you learned something valuable. Sadly, every great beginning has an end, and we may now go our separate ways. Goodbye fellow stranger!


Aryana Maccarrone                                         

Melissa Nghia

Gr. 302