Remaining BYU Professors Given "Hall Monitor" Badge

In a climate of increasing scrutiny and pressure at Brigham Young University (BYU), the administration has taken a bold step by issuing “Hall Monitor” badges to all remaining faculty members, a move that has sparked concern among educators and students alike. Inspired by the recent article from the Salt Lake Tribune, which highlights the challenges faced by professors under the leadership of Clark Gilbert, the church’s education commissioner, this new initiative aims to reinforce adherence to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ teachings. As faculty members don their bright yellow badges, they find themselves navigating the fine line between academic freedom and institutional oversight in what many are calling “dark days” for the university.

After the crackdown, all remaining faculty members will now be issued “Hall Monitor” badges as part of a new initiative aimed at reinforcing the school’s commitment to its religious values. This decision comes in the wake of increasing scrutiny over faculty adherence to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ teachings, particularly in light of recent controversial policies.

The announcement was made during a faculty meeting led by Gilbert, who has been at the forefront of implementing stricter guidelines for professors. Gilbert, who has been likened to a modern-day “hall monitor” himself, emphasized the importance of ensuring that faculty members not only support the church’s teachings but actively promote them in their classrooms. “We want to create an environment where our students feel safe and supported in their faith,” Gilbert stated, while adjusting his newly minted badge.

The “Hall Monitor” badge, which features a bright yellow shield (symbolic of Nephi’s shield in the Book of Mormon) and the slogan “Faithful and Watchful,” is intended to serve as a constant reminder to professors and students of their duty to uphold the church’s values. Faculty members will be expected to wear the badges at all times, especially during lectures, where they will be tasked with monitoring not only student behavior but also the content of their own teachings. “I want to you take these badges just as seriously as you take your garments,” Gilbert told faculty.

Music professor Jason Bergman, who has been vocal about the increasing restrictions on academic freedom at BYU, expressed his disbelief at the new policy. “I thought we were here to educate students, not to police them,” he said, shaking his head. “What’s next? Will we have to report students for asking too many questions about polyamory and racist policies?”

The initiative has sparked a wave of reactions from faculty and students alike. Some professors have embraced the new role, viewing it as an opportunity to engage more deeply with students about their faith. “I’m excited to be a hall monitor,” said one anonymous professor. “I’ve always wanted to wear a badge! Maybe I can even get a whistle.”

However, others are less enthusiastic. “This feels like a step backward,” said another faculty member who wished to remain anonymous. “Instead of fostering open dialogue, we’re being asked to stifle it. It’s hard to teach music when you’re worried about being reported for discussing the complexities of love and relationships.”

Students have also voiced their concerns, with many expressing fears that the new policy will create a culture of fear and conformity. “I just want to learn about music, not be policed for my beliefs,” said one student. “What if I want to explore different perspectives? Will I get a detention?”

As the university embarks on this new chapter of “faithful monitoring,” it remains to be seen how the “Hall Monitor” initiative will impact the academic environment at BYU. For now, professors are left to navigate the fine line between education and enforcement, all while sporting their bright yellow badges as a symbol of their commitment to the church’s teachings.

In the meantime, the university has announced plans for a “Hall Monitor Training Day,” where faculty will learn the ins and outs of their new responsibilities, including how to effectively use their badges and when to blow the whistle. As one professor quipped, “At least I’ll finally have a reason to wear my gym shorts to work!”

With the future of academic freedom at BYU hanging in the balance, one thing is clear: the hall monitors are here to stay, and they’re ready to keep a watchful eye on both students and faculty alike.