Several businesses in the vicinity of Brockton High School, like Starbucks, are temporarily amending their weekday operations due to disruptions caused by students. Reported incidents of rowdiness and minor property damage during school dismissal hours have led these establishments to cut back services during weekday afternoons. Starbucks plans to halt in-store operations between 1-3pm on school days, but will run its drive-thru service.
Local law enforcement and school authorities are working in close partnership with these businesses to mitigate disturbances and uphold public safety. Lt. Paul Bonanca of the Brockton Police confirmed that talks are being held with Starbucks management about the challenges faced by nearby establishments.
A Starbucks representative assured customers that, although during 1:30-3pm on weekdays in-store dining will be curbed, people can still place orders but must exit the store after pickup.
Brockton businesses modify schedules amidst student disruptions
The purpose of this decision is to prevent adolescent disturbances that have taken place previously.
Similarly, McDonald’s, another local franchise, has implemented a strategy of allowing limited entry during the post-lunch hours to prevent disorder from a flux of students. This tactic helps ensure customer safety, improve dining experiences, and nurtures respect amongst student patrons towards the establishment.
These changes, however, have incited feelings of marginalization within Brockton High students, who demand equality in treatment to customers frequenting these establishments outside of school hours. They advocate for impartial service irrespective of the time of day.
Mayor Robert Sullivan is keen to approve a solution beneficial to local businesses while maintaining safety and customer convenience. Surprised by Starbucks’ decision to change service hours, he is seeking a discussion with the company’s management and Chief Brenda Perez of the Brockton Police to clarify the plan.
The situation compounds the existing concerns from the previous year when Brockton High authorities, facing funding and staff shortages, struggled to manage students’ behavior. The then acting superintendent, Dr. Jim Cobbs, highlighted the need for nuanced, situation-based solutions over broad, universal approaches.
