High School Scheduling February 15, 2011

“We should strive for a school schedule that is flexible enough to provide more learning time for students who need it and more choices for those who don‘t need more learning time.”

The 4 X 4 Schedule with a Limited Number of Yearlong Embedded A/B Classes

The Hybrid 4 X 4 Schedule Advantages Choice Flexibility for double-dosing for students who need additional assistance in specific subjects. Acceleration and Credit Recovery Possibilities Accommodates the Testing Calendar Reduces Teachers Needed by Approximately 4% Reduces the total amount of resources needed at any one time. Longer class periods encourage teaching with a variety of instructional methods.

The Hybrid 4 X 4 Schedule Advantages Fewer “start-ups” and “endings” result in more useable instructional time. Fewer class changes improve school climate, discipline, and cleanliness. Because teachers see fewer students daily they know students better and are able to give more individual assistance. Adaption's Needed for: Arts AP/IB Classes Foreign Language Math

Math Recommendations Semester Block Courses Introductory Math Foundations of Algebra Foundations of Geometry Technical Mathematics II Applied Mathematics I Applied Mathematics II Advanced Functions and Modeling (AFM)* Discrete Mathematics

Math Recommendations A-day/B-day Yearlong Block Courses Pre-Calculus Integrated Math I-IV: (not discussed specifically but this group parallels the traditional sequence minus the remediation need) AP Math IB Math

Math Recommendations A-day/B-day Yearlong Block Courses & Semester Block Courses Algebra I Geometry Algebra II

Research Summary Canady and Rettig, 2000 I. Almost Guarantees From A/B or 4/4Block Schedules The number of discipline referrals to the office is reduced. The number of class tardies is reduced. The school day becomes less stressful for both students and teachers. Over time and with quality staff development, teachers change teaching behaviors; there tends to be less lecture and more active student engagement during classes.

Research Summary con’t. After at least two years of implementation 65-80 percent of teacher, students and parents state they prefer the block. In schools with A/B and 4X4 schedules, the percentage of support is greater than 90%. Both teacher and student attendance is likely to improve slightly. There will be an increase in the use of media center materials and technology.

Research Summary con’t. Academic Results The number of students on the Honor Roll will increase. The overall GPA for the school will increase. Students will complete more classes. For a selected group of students this seems to lead to completion of additional math classes and higher levels of other classes. Students also have opportunities for traditional classes in CTE and in the performing arts. Student failure rates will decline.

Research Summary con’t. Graduation rates will increase. The overall dropout rate will decrease. There is evidence that special education resource students benefit from being assigned fewer classes at one time. Schools gain flexibility in helping students who need to be accelerated and students who need extended learning time. There is no consistent evident that just changing the schedule will increase or decrease performance on standardized tests.

In Closing “"...the only way to pull ourselves to higher ground is to pull together.  We must blend hands, brains, emotions, talents, materials, machines into a mighty symphony of action for the common good."  -- Wilferd A. Peterson

Additional Information http://wsfcs.k12.nc.us/glennhs