Every weeknight, the Wi-Fi at Choate Rosemary Hall is shut off as many students rush to finish their homework. For sophomores, the Wi-Fi shuts off at 11:00 p.m — an unreasonable time, given that a Choate student’s course load is likely rigorous and time-consuming. For juniors, the Wi-Fi shuts off at 12:00 a.m., a similarly early time considering the many challenges juniors face. While it is true that the internet hours progressively extend as one grows older, most still suffer from the nightly internet shut-off.
As most Choate classes are digitized, there is a need for 24/7 Wi-Fi so that students do not have to rush to complete homework (or, worse: not finish it at all). Although there is a narrative that students should be able to finish their work in a timely manner, it is often forgotten that the life of a Choate student stretches far beyond the classroom. Because many partake in athletic commitments, music ensembles, clubs, and other extracurricular activities, many students do not start their homework until it is late at night.
The lack of free-flowing internet also creates an unfair demand for students to complete their homework within a certain period of time, causing stress. All know that teachers are generally understanding and will only take partial credit off of late work, but since Choate is such a competitive environment, students always aim for perfect scores.
It is an understandable fear that students could exploit the unlimited Wi-Fi for entertainment or to waste time. However, one must bear in mind that Choate students are not typical high-school students; they are intelligent, hardworking, and mature. All students appreciate their Choate education and know that they must get their work done — regardless of when the Wi-Fi shuts off.
Internet usage hours should not be a problem students face. Removing the restrictions on said hours would greatly benefit both students and faculty members of the Choate community.
