Plans announced by the Board of Education call for 17 furloughs on Fridays during this and the next school year in response to budget cuts needed to close the state's growing budget deficit.

Although the furloughs are undesirable, the alternative was teacher layoffs. In this economic climate, given high unemployment rates, such a move couldn't be justified.

Although no one wants classrooms to be closed, the situation provides students with an opportunity to use their Fridays effectively. The free Fridays could be dedicated to community involvement. Students could do community service projects with friends and classmates. They can also use the time to help the public, volunteering in a public library, painting over graffiti, or picking up litter in a park. Since colleges look at community service involvement, college-bound students can use the time to build their credentials.

Furloughs are inevitable in this economy. It is now the responsibility of students to put their furlough days to good use.

Hana Migliorato | Grade 10, Punahou School