Is H-B divided on generational lines?

Skibidi. Sigma. Fanum tax. As a 6-12 school, H-B’s students transcend generational boundaries; the oldest seniors were born in 2006, while the youngest 6th graders hail from 2013. Our teachers, too, are spread out in age from early 20s up to mid- and late-60s and beyond. With such a variety of ages comes multigenerational connection and discovery, an opportunity to learn from those with diverse life experiences. It also comes with frustration.

Alex, the eighth grade science teacher, one of H-B’s youngest staff members, H-B graduate, and a member of Gen Z, sees parallels between current behaviors and things he did as a student. “Everyone’s still playing on their phones during lunch [and] free times; it hasn’t gone away since I was a student.” 

Being a young teacher has also afforded Alex a look into some more unhinged student behaviors. “Stealing other people’s shoes– it’s been three straight years of that. There was also a group of kids who mixed Sprite with various energy drinks and pretended they were bartenders.”

While teachers notice these behaviors, upperclassmen have opinions on their younger counterparts.

“It’s just wrong,” says one junior. “We have nothing in common with the middle schoolers. I get that they’re going through it, but I’ve always thought of them as a different species.”

“You hear a lot on the internet about iPad kids, and how messed up they are,” attests a sophomore. “Gen Alpha is crazy.”

Gen Alpha, the generation after Gen Z, are characterized as being born between 2010 and 2024. They are the largest generation ever, the most materially endowed, and have the longest life expectancy of any generation.

One might think that being a part of the largest, best endowed generation would come with pride. However, when asked about their generational identities, middle schoolers provided a surprising answer.

“I’m not Gen Alpha.” says seventh grader Duncan. “I’m Gen Z. Please don’t characterize 2012 as Gen Alpha. Anyone born after July 1st of 2012 is Gen Alpha.” Duncan was born in June 2012.

Remarkably, adamant association with Gen Z over Gen Alpha is a trait shared by several seventh graders. Twins Audrey and Julia (H-B ‘30) share Duncan’s views. “Gen Z,” they answer, when asked about the generation they identify with.

This pattern is a fascinating cycle of denial and confusion. While several sources portray Gen Z as extending slightly later, no official sources pin Gen Alpha as beginning any later than 2010.

Sixth, seventh and eighth graders are starkly divided. Middle school has always been harkened as a time of discovery and awkwardness, but the recent sensationalization of generational media has evidently left deep rifts in middle school society. The term ‘Gen Alpha’ is met with an almost visceral reaction among young students.

However, regardless of this clash, teachers maintain an impartial standing. Alex reported seeing little behavioral difference with his students year-over-year, while Rich, algebra teacher and self-proclaimed Boomer, looks fondly on the nuances of his students. 

“Those adorable rascals,” he begins. “I’ve been confused a few times, I’ve had to ask students what a word or phrase means.” Regardless, Rich maintains that respect, curiosity, and acceptance are the only ways to treat young students. 

“At this point in my life, year 27 of my teaching career, I’m open to new people and new ideas. I see retirement shimmering in the distance, and I’m not excited for it. I want to keep learning from the people at this school.”