Lunchtime is one of the most unique parts of our daily schedule. The element of choice
we had with our buffet system sets us apart from many public schools and private schools.
Though it’s a small example of the Harley School adapting to the needs of individual students, it
really stood out my first year here. However, with the pandemic, the way our lunch period looks
now is almost completely different. We obviously can’t have a buffet anymore but on top of that,
the whole system has moved up a floor. By the time 12:55 hits, the volunteers in the gallery are
already flooded with students eagerly awaiting their bagged lunch. A relatively neat line is
formed as one volunteer goes down the line with a spray bottle of disinfectant and 3 others try to
get students their lunches as quickly as possible. The whole process seems rather refined but just
weeks ago, the gallery was frantic with a line leading out to the senior hallway.
As a new student, the cafeteria was another thing that stood out to me because it’s so
unlike most schools. It seems silly to get excited over booths and a salad bar, but details like that
are well appreciated. Once we get our food, students can go to the courtyard, a teacher’s
classroom, or the dining hall as long as everyone is socially distanced of course. Lunch has
always been a big part of the school day because it’s the only time you really get to talk to your
friends. And it’s clear that the Harley staff are doing their best to keep that feeling of unity, even
with the plastic dividers between tables.
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