We, the undersigned, wish to see the following two changes made: firstly, we wish to restore the valedictorian and salutatorian titles. This is because these titles are given to people in recognition of their hard work, dedication, and success throughout high school.

Secondly, we want to raise the bar for Latin honors. Currently, the honors are being awarded like this: cum laude = 3.75 - 3.99, magna cum laude = 4.0 - 4.24, summa cum laude = 4.25 or above. We propose the honors be awarded like this: cum laude = 4.0 - 4.24, magna cum laude = 4.25 - 4.49, summa cum laude = 4.5 or above. This is because, at the current level, students do not need to have any honors classes and can, in fact, fail multiple classes and still receive a Latin honor. Some argue that people do not have equal chances and that this lower GPA will level the playing field, however, we feel that allowing someone who has failed classes and does not seek to challenge himself/herself with higher level and more in depth classes degrades the achievements of those who have. These people also feel that everyone should be recognized for their own achievements regardless of how it compares to their peers. However, while it is true that everyone should be able to be proud of his or her own achievements, not everyone is academically inclined. Therefore lowering the bar for them diminishes the success of those who have gone above and beyond, dedicating countless hours to excel in their academics. While some may argue that these titles cause unhealthy competition, we feel that these honors actually give people an incentive to work harder and to challenge themselves while the lower GPA makes people less motivated to challenge themselves.