The art cove is now partially closed. It is a dark day for Beaver Area High School . . . but a

day many feared would come.

The art cove, the art program’s work area in the 100’s hall, was a wonderful place. It not only sheltered those in study halls who were looking to visit with their friends but also was a safe haven for those who wanted to work on their artwork when not in class.

The art cove acted as a venue that wasn’t as loud and chaotic as the lunchroom (or some other study hall rooms) which not only let kids work on their homework and study in peace, but was an accepting alternative to normal study halls open to anyone, as long as you were respectful. You could relax and not worry about some random kid screaming from some other table. It was a true student space.

Sadly, the art cove is now closed to everyone except Art 3, Studio Art, and AP Art students.

A few bad unnamed apples ruined it for everyone by disrespecting art teacher Mrs. Steffes, skipping classes to hang out in the art cove, and generally disrespecting the unique opportunity the art cove afforded. Not to mention, several regulars in the cove became increasingly disruptive, naturally causing administrators and staff to complain.

While it is sad that the cove is closed to non-art students, I can understand the closure. It’s a reasonable measure to not allow those who caused so many issues for the cove and the school to not be allowed in it as it was a privilege to have it allowed in the first place.

At the end of the day, over time, hopefully another spot will be found for those seeking a student space to call their own. Until that time though, we will miss you dearly, art cove.