For as long as I can remember, the quality of the computers as well as internet services at Middletown High School North has never been exemplary, however recently this year incompetence and inconsistency has plagued North’s computers.

Internet and computer issues have affected not just day-to-day computing, but let us not forget issues with scheduling, grades and calculating the senior class ranking which was delayed by several weeks.

Unfortunately, it is not uncommon to wait several minutes to log on to a computer, it is the norm at North for teachers to not be able to access their email, and it is normal that “all call” announcements are made that interrupt every classroom, because those who work in the main office or guidance cannot access student’s schedules.

The quality of Middletown North’s computers are pitiful.  At one point several weeks ago, the faulty internet left the newspaper staff unable to conduct a meeting because every computer in the 2100 wing computer lab was either unresponsive or unable to connect with the internet.

For a school district which does recognize the necessity of a more technology driven curriculum, the status of computing power at Middletown North high school is years behind.

Not only is internet connectivity, broadband capability and computer information storage horrifically insufficient, but also the state of the physical hardware is not adequate.  Computer monitors are constantly being damaged; computer keyboards and mice are also constantly stolen. In this regard the responsibility falls not on administrative policy but on the students. This juvenile, dirt-bag behavior has burdened the entire school; it is because of the irresponsible students that the entire school has suffered. Computer labs are not available at all times and the CRC room, once a relaxed study room during block 3, has been closed permanently.

In this discussion let us not forget all of the empty promises from school officials. The proposed doubling of bandwidth, the promise of new and modern equipment  never seem to happen.

This issue of computer health, maintenance and internet connectivity will continue to disrupt the quality of education provided at North. Everyone has experienced an inability to load a presentation or has been unable to conduct research in school because of this incompetence. Everyone has suffered: everyone would benefit from a major overhaul.