Weekly Editorial
August 21, 2006

Smart Use of Time!

Customizing the teaching and learning environment to the unique educational needs of each group of students has always been a priority of our district. The daily class schedule, including the pace and sequence of classes, is a key component in an individual building’s learning environment. This past spring, our dedicated staff at the middle school worked diligently to develop a seven-period day. The following are key benefits from this innovative schedule:

• Students will have all four core academic classes (48 minutes each) sequenced together during the first four periods of the day, the optimal time for student attention.
• This academic class block of time will provide for teacher teaming, integration of content areas and flexible use of time.
• With three exploratory classes (43 minutes each) students are provided the opportunity to explore and experience additional academic related courses. In addition to Art, Technology Education, Computers, Drama, Physical Education, Spanish and Service Learning, students will be able to take Book Club, Author Study, Home Living and Choir.
• Students will be able to participate in Band and Choir as well as Physical Education and other elective classes.
• A daily Academic Lab (29 minutes) will provide time for students for remediation, enrichment, independent reading and getting themselves organized (important for middle school age students!).

This initiative of customizing an optimal schedule to meet the academic and program needs of middle school students is just another example of HSPS fostering “academic excellence in a family atmosphere” for every age and every grade level.