Modified Block Schedule May 23rd-May 24th

In an attempt to study the best academic program methodologies, teaching pedagogy and strategies for our middle school students for next year and beyond, the staff will be simulating a modified block schedule May 23 – May 24. During these two days, students will be able to focus on their primary core lessons with additional time to complete classwork, homework, or additional assignments they potentially would have taken home or completed at a later day. Please do not be alarmed should your son or daughter not arrive home with any homework these two days, as a major component of block schedules is to give teachers lab time, have student’s complete homework in class with teacher assistance, and much more. I have listed several student learning outcomes and potential benefits of utilizing block schedules to help you better understand why our staff has suggested looking at this approach.

Potential Benefits of Block According to the CDE

• With block scheduling, instructional time is not fragmented by frequent transitions between classes. Fewer distinct classes mean less time spent on classroom management activities, such as calling attendance and organizing and focusing the class. In addition, there are fewer opportunities for students to arrive late to class.
• IMPROVED TEACHING AND LEARNING with longer blocks, teachers have more time to complete lesson plans and to examine and re-evaluate practices. More class time is available to develop key concepts, incorporate creativity into instruction, and try a variety of classroom activities that address different learning styles. Longer time blocks allow for in-depth studies, such as individual student projects, peer collaboration, and one-on-one work between teachers and students.
• The 4x4 schedule allows advanced students to move through the material at a more rapid rate, and they are able to finish sequential language classes, such as Spanish I and II, within one academic year. Some schools allow students to use this to their advantage and graduate early. The 4x4 schedule also provides the opportunity for failing students to retake a class without falling behind their grade level.
• TEACHER COLLABORATION between teachers is possible because block scheduling gives them longer time periods in which they can exchange ideas and strategies, hold meetings with each other, and work on staff development.
• ACHIEVEMENT LEVELS INCREASE The results show that students' grades improve overall. There are fewer failed classes, a higher number of students on the honor roll, an increase in students' grade point averages, and fewer failing marks. Statistics reveal that fewer at-risk students drop out of school with block scheduling. With a 4x4 model, students can have a fresh start at midyear or reenter school at the beginning of the second semester.