Taking pressure off of students was a theme in changes for next year at both the Old Rochester Regional Junior High and High School.

On Wednesday night, principals presented their plans to the ORR School Committee for approval.

To prevent kids from stressing too much about their GPA at the junior high, the administration plans to put the Junior Honors Society on hold for at least a year.

“It just seemed like one more way to sort students,” Brogioli said. “They’re worried about it.”

Principal Kevin Brogioli also outlined the yearly improvement plan, which will be two years instead of one to give the administration more time to flesh out goals.

Among the items on the plan is to publicize accomplishments at the junior high more. Brogioli said he wants to utilize ORCTV and local press more next year.

“We want to get the positive out there,” he said.

For exploratory classes next year, the principal said he would like to develop keyboarding and computer coding.

Brogioli also said he and his staff would like to hold a community service fair where local groups can introduce students, faculty and parents to volunteer opportunities in the area.

At the high school, Principal Mike Devoll said the improvement plan includes one homework free night a week to reduce stress and give students a break.

Devoll also wants to expand the Gay Straight Alliance and offer more things for transgendered students, including gender-neutral bathrooms.

Regarding relational goals, Devoll said he wants to “join forces with the community to improve that athletic complex.”

He also hopes to draw in the community by promoting school spirit across the three towns.

Instead of homecoming being only at the high school, Devoll said, “Why isn’t it homecoming community week?”

He also proposed the possibility of having a science fair and an art show for all grades at the high school.

The School Committee approved the improvement plans and the changes to the junior high handbook.