LAKEVILLE —— A change is in the works for the schedule at Apponequet Regional High School. Principal Jill Proulx has laid out two new scheduling options, and both would bring the high school to a six-period day.
"Early in the fall, it became apparent to us that we did not meet time on learning standards set by the DESE [Department of Elementary and Secondary Education]," Ms. Proulx explained. "We need to have 990 scheduled hours of class time, and right now we do not."
One of the leading causes of this problem is that Apponequet's study halls currently do not meet the state's definition of a structured study hall, and therefore do not count as time on learning. If left unchanged, the state could withhold funding from the district.
In looking at other high schools in the area, the administration found Bridgewater-Raynham had an issue meeting time on learning requirements, and addressed it by switching to a six-period schedule. Ms. Proulx said Bridgewater-Raynham's example served as a good starting point in the development of a new schedule for Apponequet.
The first six-period schedule option, the so-called "Option A", would have class blocks that rotated on a daily basis with the exception of one stationary block. The schedule would also provide weekly professional development time for the staff, as well as time for students to seek out their teachers' help, as well as take part in various clubs and activities.
Teachers would have their professional development time during the first hour of every Wednesday morning, and that would impact class start time.
"Every Wednesday would be a late start. What that means is that students would not have to be in until that 8:14 start," Supt. John McCarthy explained. "The buses would obviously still run at the regular time, so those students who take the bus to school would still have to be here at the usual time. They'll have what is essentially a supervised study hall."
Among the potential changes proposed by Ms. Proulx is what she calls "Laker Block".
"It's a time when non-stipend clubs could meet during the day. It's something that both students and teachers would enjoy and could look forward to on a weekly basis during this block," she said. "This way, students won't have to pay to feel part of their community, and we would satisfy the mentor and advisory commitment NEASC [New England Association of Schools and Colleges] would like for us to meet."
The administration's second option, "Option B", is very similar to "Option A". The key difference is all blocks rotate. It's also the choice preferred by most of the teachers.
"A majority of teachers prefer the complete rotation of all periods. They're concerned about having the same class at the end of the day everyday," Ms. Proulx explained, noting that while she understands the concerns, she's more inclined to support "Option A", because she claims it will help the school better meet requirements set by NEASC.
Another unique aspect of the proposed schedules is what Ms. Proulx referred to as "Academic Options."
"In traditional study halls, there's very little student-teacher interaction," the principal said. "What's different about Academic Options is it meets at the same time. So, all teachers are available to help students should they need help in a particular subject."
Ms. Proulx said her team has also looked at the possibility of developing writing and math labs for students during this period. There's also been an idea of National Honor Society members working as tutors for their fellow classmates to meet their community service requirements.
Many students and parents, however, are weary of the changes. They're worried choices will be limited when it comes to elective courses, especially band and choir. The superintendent tried to calm those concerns.
"Music is one of the most challenging courses to schedule"¦ and in looking at this, I think this actually enhances the ability of students to take music at this school." Mr. McCarthy said. "If it's scheduled during the Academic Options block, it frees up every single student to take music."
Some students argued that by the time they've reached their senior year, most of them have completed their required coursework, and are looking forward to more "fun" classes. Ms. Proulx, on the other hand, tried to make the case students need to be better prepared for graduation.
"In this competitive environment, more is expected of you to get in to colleges and universities, or whatever education you choose to pursue next." she told the students. "We want you to take advantage of a complete free and public education. We also like to offer fun things that we also think are beneficial to you, but taking three classes isn't taking advantage of all we have to offer. It's my responsibility to push you to take advantage of this education, and open up as many doors for you as possible."
The final decision on the new schedule is left to the high school administration. The school committee does not vote on scheduling matters. Ms. Proulx has discussed holding informational meetings with parents and students about the changes, though none have been arranged thus far. The new schedule has to be in place by September 1.