As the end of the school year approaches, many students at NVD are wondering what changes will be made for the next school year. From an updated Norsemen period to new phone policies, next year is likely to bring several updates.

In the 2025-2026 school year, NVD had three days off from school for February break instead of the usual five. However, next year students will have a full week off for February break. This full week break will give students time to relax and recharge before the second half of the school year.

Another big change that students will see next year is an updated Norsemen period. According to Assistant Principal Richard Scherer, administrators are working to make it more flexible for students. 

“We are planning to revamp the Norsemen period to give students, specifically upperclassmen, more of a choice and make it more activity-based,” Scherer said.

An additional major change coming next year is NVD’s phone policy. Many students have been concerned about what the phone restrictions will look like and what effects they might have. According to Mr. Scherer, the policy is being updated to align with new state rules.

“NVD’s phone policy must comply with the state, so there will most likely be fewer visible phones in the hallway and possibly more restrictions on phones in the classrooms,” Scherer said.

Because of this, students will likely have to follow stricter rules when it comes to phone usage throughout the school day next year. If phone pouches are introduced in every class, devices will be completely unavailable during class time. The overall goal of these new rules is to reduce distractions during class and keep students more focused throughout the school day.

Although some phone policies are changing, others will remain the same. As of now, the phone policy in PE classes will not be different next year. Phones will still not be allowed outside of the locker room during PE. If a student is caught using their phone, the consequences will be the same as they currently are. The first offense gets a warning, the second offense gets six discipline points, and a parent or guardian must pick up the phone from the office; more offenses can lead to more serious consequences, such as detentions or in-school suspensions. 

Additionally, next year there will be multiple pep rallies. More pep rallies and new art around the school will create more opportunities for students to get involved and show their school spirit.

“We are planning on having a pep rally for all three sports seasons next year to create more school spirit. We also want to add the signs that are in the A, B, and C hallways to the whole building and add some new murals and pictures made by current students,” Scherer said.

Overall, the changes coming to NVD next year are expected to improve every student’s experience. With modifications to the yearly schedule, a new phone policy to eliminate distractions, and initiatives to create more school spirit, NVD’s student body can expect to see a more focused, engaging, and connected school environment next year.

“Next year we are aiming to increase school spirit and create a more engaging environment for all students,” Scherer said.