As the 2016-2017 year began, many changes were visible to students. Perhaps the most notable of all has been the new Hydro Boost water bottle fillers.

The two current fillers reside at the water fountains across from Lancer Landing. Students have been lined up to use them this first week. The fillers come to fulfill the need for something timely and quick.

“We noticed that so many kids drink water, which is awesome, but takes a lot of time in between classes filling them up, not to mention water often gets on the floor,” Associate Principal Karen Calcaterra said.

These fillers are funded by money from the Cookie Stand. The funding will buy eight fillers.

As of now, the timeline for when these fillers will be installed is unsure. Plans were to have them all installed by the end of the first month of school, but it takes more than what one thinks.

“We have to wait on several things. They all have flat surface board behind them that must be made. I have to get work orders to move display cases and things that are in the way. So, the goal is by the first month of school to have them all in,” Principal John Shaughnessy said.

With only two currently, the demand is high. There is usually a line coming from the fillers between classes. Even with the wait, students are very excited for the fillers.

“I love them!” senior Amber Spriggs said. “I think a lot more kids will bring reusable water bottles and drink more water throughout the day. So they’re good for the planet’s and the students’ health.”