The Fine Print

After last school year, I think it’s safe to say that despite some minor personal issues there was one definite, glaring problem with the school. I'm sure most of you would recall it, but for the sake of some freshmen that didn’t have to experience it, here it is: the attendance system at davening.


Just in general, a crisp attendance system for 7:45 am davening is something any student can appreciate. After all, davening at Frisch is like a morning shot of espresso; it keeps you awake, generates brainpower, and gets you excited to start your day. Quite frankly, I was sick of kids missing out on the rejuvenating morning experience, and I couldn’t believe my eyes when I spent my Pesach vacation reading through the davening attendance reports. Let’s just say, the results weren’t high.


Not knowing how the administration would handle it, I have to admit I was a little nervous to come back to school this September. The first few days were shaky at best and somewhat chaotic at times, what with the total lack of attendance taking at prayers. My nerves were finally eased when Dr. Stein revealed the new system. Fingerprinting! Wow! What could possibly be better or more cost efficient? What a great use of both time and money! “Don’t forget integrity!” shouted my mother from the next room. Whatever, Ma.


Since then it’s been some mighty smooth sailing. Walk into the shul, wait in a just tolerably long line, quick touch of the finger to the pad, some network problems, try again, doesn’t register, go to my seat, come back in a few minutes, scan again, and boom. Just like that I’m in. This is like the fastest process of the school’s since they implemented that second line up by the cafeteria. Man, it’s like clockwork up there.


Despite some slight doubts I've had since the launch of this system—isn’t this a little over-the-top? Wasn’t the old way much quicker? Doesn’t this cost money? Is my identity in danger here? Am I over thinking this? —I think I can finally just stand back and appreciate its beauty. No more of that quick signature stuff, or having rabbis mark me down as present. I mean, what is this? The 2000’s? Come on. It’s 2012, and our attendance system has finally acknowledged it. I give it two thumbs, or rather two index fingers, up.

                             

Shkoiach, Frisch.