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A high school in Chengdu has ignited heated discussions online after it was revealed that the school set up a designated “top student dining area” in its cafeteria. The controversy began on December 16 when photos shared by a netizen showed part of the cafeteria labeled with signs reading “top student dining area.” Another image showed students dining in this section, with meals that appeared significantly different from those served to regular students.
The photos quickly drew mixed reactions from netizens, with many questioning whether the school’s initiative fostered unfair treatment among students. Critics argued that such a setup could create a divide between high-achieving students and their peers, potentially harming morale and promoting inequality within the student body.
“This feels like an unnecessary way to rank students. Isn't it enough to praise them in class?” commented one netizen. Another wrote, “Aren’t all students deserving of respect, regardless of their academic performance? This might embarrass those who didn’t do well.”
In response to the uproar, a representative from Chengdu Shishi Chengfei High School explained that the dining area is part of a monthly incentive program to reward high-performing students. According to the school, the recognition is extended to students who achieve first place in individual subjects, first place in their class, or demonstrate the greatest improvement in their performance.
A staff member clarified, “The initiative includes a free meal and a school-branded gift as a reward. It’s not a permanent arrangement and only applies after the monthly exams. Any student can earn this opportunity as long as they perform well, so there is no discrimination involved.”
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