A recent change to Hawkins High School’s bell system has sparked mixed reactions among students and staff.
The new bell, introduced as part of an upgraded public address system, has quickly become a topic of conversation across campus. While administrators say the update was necessary, some students say the sound is too harsh and unpleasant.
Skylar, a student said, “It makes me feel like I’m going to have a migraine.”
John, another student, described the bell as annoying and said the tone feels louder than the previous one. Several students shared similar concerns, explaining that the new sound seems sharper and more sudden when it goes off.
Some students say they preferred the old bell, describing it as easier on the ears and less distracting during passing periods. Others said they had grown used to the previous sound because it had been part of the school’s routine for years. The change, they said, was unexpected.
However, not all reactions have been negative. A few students said the new bell is clearer and easier to hear in crowded hallways. They believe the updated system makes it more obvious when class periods begin and end, which could help students stay on schedule.
Principal Mr. Malta said the previous PA system was outdated and needed to be replaced. “My previous school already had these upgrades, and they worked well, so we decided to bring them to Hawkins,” he said.
According to Mr. Malta, the upgraded system improves sound quality and reliability throughout the building. He said the decision to replace the old system was based on long-term needs and modernizing school equipment.
School administrators acknowledge the mixed reactions and say they are listening to student feedback. For now, the new bell system will remain in place as students and staff continue adjusting to it.
As the school year continues, the updated bell remains a noticeable part of daily life at Hawkins High School, drawing both criticism and support from the school community.
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Noah Campbell • Feb 18, 2026 at 2:40 pm
Aaron what do you think the bell should sound like. Thank you.