Spring Recess

All schools will be closed for Spring Recess starting Thursday, March 28 through Monday, April 8. The first day back from break is scheduled for Tuesday, April 9. Have a safe and enjoyable break!

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FAQ for Incoming Freshmen and New Students to Columbia

Columbia High School aerialQ: What time does school start?
A: School starts at 7:10 a.m. with Guide Room. Dismissal is at 2:03 p.m. View Class Schedule.

Q: Will we have an opportunity to go inside Columbia before the school year starts so we can find our lockers and classes?
A: Yes. All freshmen and new students will be given tours of Columbia High School as part of Freshman and New Student Orientation on Thursday, August 29.

Front of Columbia High SchoolQ: How many class periods are in a day?
A: There are 8 periods, with one set aside for lunch.

Q: How long are the classes?
A: Each period is 45 minutes.

Q: How much passing time do we get between classes?
A: 5 minutes.

Q: Are the other kids helpful if we get lost?
A: Yes, there are many students and staff here to help you. Don’t be afraid to ask.

Q: Are students allowed to carry backpacks?
A: Yes.

Columbia students enter school on first day Q: How large are the lockers?
A: Large enough for a book bag and gym bag.

Q: Are 9th and 12th graders in the same hallway?
A: Yes.

Q: Are there hallway sweeps to find students who are late to class?
A: Yes.

Q: What is the consequence if we are late to class?
A: Usually a warning for the first few times, and then you are written up.

Social Studies classQ: Do we get a study hall?
A: Yes, if you have an unscheduled period in your 8-period day.

Q: About how many minutes/hours of homework should we expect?
A: Approximately 30 minutes per core subject.

Q: How many science labs will we have each week?
A: In Science, you will average 2 labs per week.

Q: What are the towers?
A: There is a north and south tower. The third floors of the building are in the towers.

Q: How difficult is it to get from one class to another?
A: Not difficult once you get used to your schedule.

Students in CHS cafeteriaQ: Is lunch really a buffet?
A: There are many choices. Breakfast and lunch menus can be found on the Food Services page.

Q: Do freshmen get split up for lunch?
A: Yes, you could have lunch anytime between periods 4 and 7.

Q: Are there people available to help us like at Goff?
A: Yes, there are 5 school counselors, 2 school psychologists, 2 social workers and 1 student assistance counselor.

Q: How much more difficult is the work for a typical student?
A: Homework and studying are very important. There are more independent assignments than in middle school.

Q: What happens if you fail a class and cannot go to summer school?
A: You must repeat the class, which could affect graduating on time.

Pep Rally dance routineQ: What fun things are there to do at Columbia?
A: Clubs, activities, sports, music, school plays.

Q: Do 9th graders get to go to dances?
A: Absolutely.

Q: What do you think is the hardest thing for 9th graders to adjust to in high school?
A: Balancing freedom with responsibility.