NOISE AND NERVES

Evening Post, Volume CV, Issue 147, 23 June 1928, Page 10

NOISE AND NERVES

SHOULD SCHOOLS HAVE BELLS? "We, the undersigned, being residents living in close proximity to the Hutt Valley High School, wish to protest against the erection of a bell at the school, as it is likely to have a disturbing effect in an otherwise quiet neighbourhood.", A petition in the foregoing terms and bearing the signatures of thirteen nearby residents, came before the Board of Governors of the Hutt Valley High School last evening. Mr. H. Baldwin said he could not see that, any more objection could be taken to a school bell than to* a church bell, The boll would be rung for only a short period each day. Mr. E. P. Rishwqrth, however, expressed himself, as quite in sympathy with the petitioners.' There was far too much noise in modern civilisation, and the constant noise affected people's health. He suggested an electric' bell, which could be heard throughout the building without disturbing the neighbourhood. Mr. Baldwin raised the question of whether the bell was intended to let the laggard know that school was in. If it was to be only for calling the classes together, an electric bell would be enough. Mr. G. London held a different opinion. "I think that this tendency to consider the nerves of people is making them more nervous stfll," he said.. lie went on to point out the association that existed between bell and school. Perhaps a bell would be a little troublesome to the neighbours, but arguing on this line, church bells, etc., would be suppressed until the place became "as silent as the grave." The matter was left over till the next meeting. •