Are You Ready for a Schedule Change?
February 24, 2009 • written by Hunter Haagsman
Scheduling Savings Discussion among school board members began in the early summer of this year about revising the current 4 hour block schedule. In the 2011 school year, all South Washington County high schools are to begin implementing a more common 6 or 5 hour, by 3 trimester schedule. This decision, which confuses, angers, and pleases some parents and students, has created a major rift about what is best for education.
“I don’t understand why the schedule is changing” said Jeff Bullis, a sophomore.
“Ever since I can remember Park High School has had 4 period days, it seems stupid to change that”.
Jeff is not alone, and evidence of this can be found among many students and parents. School board meetings conducted at in October were attended by dozens of parents, most of who were against any changes. Claiming their students didn’t want their high school experience changed, and even accused the school board of putting finances before education. A petition against the proposal gathered hundreds of signatures within hours.
This leaves many wondering why students remain so opposed. Jane Newell, a parent, believes the change is in everyone’s best interest and will save the students time and money.
Until early 1997, PHS operated on a 6 period schedule and adjusted to the current 4 hour time frame in the hopes of creating a more effective school day with more options, less distractions, and with more similarities to college.
The school board admits many benefits to the current schedule but claims it is to costly, time consuming, and does not prepare some students adequately for standardized tests.
With the economy in a state of panic, many school board members cite financial reasons as a major factor in the switch. According to school board report and independent studies, the shortening teacher prep time from 84 minutes to 50 would save tens of thousands of dollars every single year.
This is not a downside in the opinion of student Tim Brown.
“Next year there will be 9th graders here who will have been accustomed to a 6 period day.”
“Park is supposed to introduce a house concept next year and the 6 period day works better for that.”
Most studies show the 6 period day is better for students and does not increase the amount of homework, according to the school board.
“Honestly I’m afraid I will get a lot more homework with two more classes.”
Jeff Bullis said. This, however is improbable reports say, because teachers will not be given more time to assign the homework or correct additional work.
Another common belief is that the schedule will prevent students from taking two math or language classes in one year. This is not accurate, however, in the opinion of the school board and Dr. Agbamu. They say there is nothing stopping a student from taking two classes at the same time.
Final details are not clear yet, but the current plan is to phase in the schedule two years from now.
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