In an attempt aimed at expanding academic opportunities, the high school team has presented to the board the modified 7 x 2 block schedule that will take effect in the 2026-27 school year. The change is intended to help students balance graduation requirements with the freedom to engage in classes that interest them, along with the ability to prepare for college.
This change, with alternating A/B days and Wednesdays to meet with all classes, was created to give more time to students to complete required credits, while also having the chance to take subjects that interest them. Having more periods in each semester will provide students with more class options, along with more time to take classes in person, rather than completing them online.
Rachel Steil, English teacher and pathways coordinator, was a part of the discussion about this schedule. She explained that students currently have limited freedom to choose, and this new model aims to “give kids more options” by adding more periods to the academic day.
Another important factor considered was student well-being. With this schedule, students will have more support and resources to assist in overall high school navigation and mental health, along with time to connect with teachers and staff, which will be beneficial during the longer class periods.
“I think it is going to provide a good opportunity for students to have more work time in class,” Junior Vera Bell said, when asked her opinion on the longer periods. Bell added that the longer classes will become a useful time to get homework done, along with the ability to have one-on-ones with teachers.
With changes from this new schedule, something that is not planned to change drastically is the curriculum in core classes; however, class structure will become more flexible to work with the content that will be covered in each class. It is assumed that each teacher will adapt to this switch in the best way they see fit to make sure that their students are learning in the most effective way possible.
Science teacher Peter Stenross believes that having some form of structure that is present each day, that follows the same kind of method, would be very good to keep students active and on track in the classroom.
An additional benefit of this future schedule is how it will open up more options to expand pathways that focus on events and milestones post-graduation, whether it be college, career or military. New activities could be introduced to give students the experience and information they need when thinking about life after they graduate. In addition, students will have time to develop and enhance other useful skills.
When asked about what new pathway options could bring, Steil described that the schedule would give time to teach study skills, along with average, everyday skills that could help students in the future.
This new schedule has tied in both research and thought to ensure that students are set up for success, allowing support and connection throughout school. Both students and staff will have time to expand on their curriculum and explore classes that interest them. The modified 7 x 2 block schedule will give every student access to opportunities to make the most out of their high school experience.
