Many clubs on campus have not been able to meet since the fall semester due to conflicts with teacher contracts taking place at the school, leaving students upset from the loss of many clubs.

“It made it ridiculously difficult to educate people because we need to present,” Surf Club president sophomore Allison Wong said. “When you don’t have access to a room, it’s not optimal, especially with so many kids on campus.”

Teachers have been negotiating for a new contract to receive more pay, which has resulted in closing their doors during their nutrition and lunch breaks as a silent protest.

“I understand that the teachers are protesting about the current situation with the contract, and I do understand their circumstances aren’t the best,” Project Paper Bag president junior Aiden Lopez said. “I just hope that change will happen soon because clubs help keep our school active.”

As students conversed with those educated in the matter, they believe empathizing with the teachers is important. Although the situation has not been ideal for many, there is still a strong appreciation for the teachers and a level of solidarity throughout the school community.

“I stand with the teachers. I think the teachers are doing the right thing by closing their doors and silently protesting,” Biology Club president junior Liad Studnik said. “Teachers work so hard to help us and take time out of their day to be our educators and teach the new generation of American young minds.”

Students have expressed their frustration with their clubs being unable to meet. Many believe that this is damaging for the school community and the welcoming environment that students have been trying to create and maintain through these clubs.

“I understand that the teachers want a higher raise, but it has been affecting us students with clubs,” Filipino Club president junior Marielle Flores said. “We can’t build communities for our clubs anymore.”

Students and teachers alike hope to find a resolution soon, and wish that clubs can meet as soon as possible. The spring semester has allowed for some clubs to begin meetings again, and there have been positive reactions from the whole student body, with many in high spirits that clubs will go back to normal soon.

“Part of the advertising when I joined the school was that there were 150 clubs on campus, and you could really find your people,” Wong said. “But now, we don’t; it’s been too long.”