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Middle Schools Selected for Schedule Pilot Program
Block, 6-period schedules get tryout at 12 schools next fall
March 11, 2010
Albuquerque Public Schools will test two proposed class schedules at 12 middle schools beginning next fall. Four schools will pilot the proposed five-period block, while the rest use a six-period schedule.
The proposed block schedule will be in effect at:
The more traditional-looking schedule will be used at:
In the proposed block schedule, there are four, 75-minute class periods and a 45-minute “skinny.” Math and language arts classes meet every day, while science, social studies and electives meet every other day. The “skinny,” which also meets daily, may be used as an advisory period, for electives or additional instruction as students may need.
Classes last 60 minutes in the proposed six-period schedule, except for the 45-minute “skinny.” All classes meet daily.
Both schedules leave time for electives and provide common prep times for teachers can work in teams in interdisciplinary lesson plans.
“A committee created unified schedules through a thoughtful process with research-based best practices in mind,” said Ruby Ethridge, APS associate superintendent for middle schools. “A consistent schedule makes it easier if students and teachers change schools, and longer class periods allow teachers to go more in-depth with their lessons.”
APS middle schools currently use a wide variety of schedules, including variations on block and traditional arrangements. There are five-, six- and seven-period days in effect across the district.
The proposed schedules will be monitored throughout the next year and re-evaluated. APS will hold several public forums to gather input before a single, unified schedule is put in place for 2011-12.
