As an upperclassman, I have spent a lot of time in the library throughout my years at Green High School. Last year especially, I would come in during my flex period, which fell between back-to-back classes, to get homework done or at least be productive during my off period.

Now, if you try to go to the library during flex, you are turned away before you can even step inside. It wasn’t always like this. At the beginning of the year, flex students were still allowed to sit quietly and work in the library. So, what changed? Honestly, I couldn’t tell you. It felt like a switch flipped overnight.

When some friends and I went in during flex earlier this semester, we were told that flex students were no longer permitted in the library. The library aide explained that the direction came from administration and that any questions should be taken up with Principal Bridenthal.

So, I did.

“This is not a change from the original flex option that we started years ago,” Bridenthal said. “The idea behind flex is to allow students freedom to come and go from campus when they don’t have classes. In fact, on the application students complete to apply for flex, it says: Students utilizing a flex period must be off school grounds (not hanging out in the parking lot) every day during that period.”

If that has always been the rule, though, why were flex students previously allowed to use the library? Flex was introduced to us freshman year as a reward for maintaining good attendance and grades. To me, that always meant it was a privilege, not a punishment.

“Flex is a privilege, not a right.” I can still hear Mr. Elliott saying that. But if you’ve earned that privilege through hard work and responsibility, shouldn’t you be trusted to use the library productively?

If someone misbehaves, then sure, revoke their flex. But for the majority of us who quietly study or catch up on work, the library should be an option. After all, those without flex rarely use it, so why keep out the students who actually will?