It’s no secret that the clocks at Lexington High School are often more of a suggestion than a precise measure of time. Still, even when they do line up, students are met with the same dull, unmotivating bell sound—a noise so uninspiring it could make even the most caffeinated student hit snooze. In an effort to modernize the school day, LHS has made a bold move to turn things around. The school has replaced its traditional bell sound with the iconic refrain from Beyoncé’s Diva: “Diva is a female version of a hustla…”
In an email to all LHS families, Principal Skool Daze explained the decision, stating that, “Diva, for me, was a no-brainer song choice. It’s just the type of motivation I need—I mean—students need to keep them going through the school day.”
Daze also described an “intense” debate between staff in the breakroom over which Beyoncé song truly “fit the vibe” of passing time. Ultimately, Diva narrowly beat out Crazy In Love, to much uproar in the English and History departments.
The change, however, has not been without its challenges. Teachers report that instead of transitioning between classes, students are now breaking into spontaneous dance battles in the hallway. Some have even been seen dramatically strutting to their next period, tossing their backpacks over their shoulders like couture fur coats.
“I was just trying to get to AP Chemistry, and suddenly, I was in a full-blown runway show,” said junior Valedictoriya Thompson.
The administration has issued a statement urging students to “channel their inner hustlers productively” and to limit hallway catwalks to under 30 seconds. In response, students have proposed extending passing time to include an official “Beyoncé Buffer Period.”
While some teachers believe this proposal would impede the students’ focus on their education, other faculty members support the change.
“Honestly, I feel empowered,” said Honor Rollins, an English teacher at LHS. “I’ve never walked into class with so much confidence. I might start grading essays with a little more flair.”
The “Beyoncé Buffer” effect is now being examined academically. Seniors taking AP Psychology have begun learning about Diva’s effect on the brain and high-school mindset.
“We’re asking students to really take a closer look at the “Beyoncé Buffer Period” and ask, ‘How does one channel the hustle.” Gröwthe Mindsethe, an AP Psychology teacher at LHS, explained.
Whether LHS will stick with Diva or eventually rotate in other Beyoncé hits (rumors suggest Deja Vu may replace the fire alarm) remains to be seen. Until then, one thing is certain—LHS is now operating on Beyoncé Standard Time.