Every day at break time, which starts at 10am every day, students rush like a stampeding herd to the lunch loggia for delicious cookies and muffins. Cookie Break is a tradition at Saint Stephens; often, for departing seniors, it is a highlight of their years here.

Recently, due to a variety of reasons, the snack line has been growing extremely long, and the long waits and “cutting” are beginning to take a toll on snackers.

For one, students have been arriving to class after break late; for teachers, this can be a big issue.  As a result, in order to arrive at class before the second bell, snackers have begun to cut the line. This sometimes leads to pushing and shoving in order to get to the front of the line.

Last year, Mrs.O’Dell had senior volunteers to help her during cookie break. With a volunteer, there could be two cookie lines instead of one, making the process more efficient and smoother.

Our new lunchroom coordinator, Mrs. Carney, has done a wonderful job, but she can be overwhelmed sometimes during cookie break and says she’s very open to help.

In regard to recent long lines, Mrs. Carney said, “Last Friday I was the only one here to work the lines.  If I had more volunteers I could open four cookie lines.”

Carney also said that she is seeking volunteers, and if you would like to volunteer for service hours, contact Mr.Holt.  This is a huge plus: it’s a good way to get your hours!

Currently, sophomores Max O’dell, and Michael Mills are the only volunteers during break time.  

Apparently, administration and faculty have noticed the issue in recent weeks, and they will be a meeting next week to discuss the resolutions.

Additionally, there has been talk around school about the availability of snacks outside of break and lunch.

Several students, in interviews, reported that they wished that the lunch loggia was open at other times. “It was definitely convenient, and it was nice to purchase food whenever I was hungry,” said senior Ryan Thompson.

Last year, the lunch loggia was open at various times during the morning; students enjoyed this privilege, and it seems it would be welcomed back.  Also, it could result in a shorted lunch line and a less chaotic break.

In any event, look for a solution to the recent lines soon.  Here’s to cookies!