In the quest for improved efficiency, time management, and focus on student centered learning, WCHS revisited what the school day should look like. One of the popular methods to implement these initiatives is block scheduling. The intuitive and powerful time management system involves breaking each day into longer blocks of time instead of the previous system of up to eight fifty minute periods each day. This new system includes two Navy and Gray days, and a Wolf day for most weeks of the school year. Navy days include three academic block periods along with PACK, Gray days include four academic block periods, and Wolf Days run all academic periods in a shorter time frame to wrap up the week and prevent a large gap between instructional time.
One of the key components of this new schedule is the allocation of ninety minutes for classes as well as PACK, which is a period of the day for academic intervention and teacher-led relationship building activities. One of the many benefits to this extended time is the reduction of distractions, opportunity for more 1:1 attention from teachers, and more time for students to complete schoolwork. When you combine block scheduling with the new phone policy and SmartPass, the amount of distractions in the classroom is greatly reduced, making it easier to focus on content material. The extended time provides teachers more options to differentiate instruction, catering to various learning styles, and also increases the amount of 1:1 time for student needs. In most cases, a block includes a variety of activities as well as time for students to complete assignments, reducing the amount of homework they might have. This allows more time for those who might be involved in extracurricular activities, sports, or have jobs. Overall, block scheduling helps prevent burnout, encourages students to improve time management skills, and presents even more opportunities to be successful.
As with any big change or transition, there are always mixed emotions. Most students I’ve spoken with, especially upperclassmen, like the block structure of the block days, and still aren’t quite sure how they feel about the Wolf days. Senior Apolo Nguyen stated, “[I have] mixed emotions, I used to hate it. Wolf days messed up the consistency [of the block days]. I do like the Gray and Navy day system, but I’m still trying to get used to the switch on Wolf days.” In order to accommodate the lunch schedule for the large student population, Wolf days do include a block period, which is half instructional time and half PACK time. Nguyen said Wolf days can sometimes feel overwhelming because of feeling rushed going from class to class after the routine of block days. Teacher and Choir Director Sean Baley is finding the new schedule to be beneficial. “I think that there is a lot more time to help students with what they may be having difficulty with, and I think that especially for me as a performing arts teacher, I have more time to work on technique with my students,” Baley stated.
All in all, block scheduling is proving to be beneficial in several ways. It empowers teachers and students to maximize learning and productivity, and provides more avenues for intervention and relationship building for all stakeholders.
By Kendall Lewis, West Clermont High School Class of 2024.