In the fall of 2009, all MNPS comprehensive high schools with the exception of Hillsboro are planning to implement a block schedule, either 4X4 or A/B.
The 4X4 block means students will take four courses in the fall and four entirely different courses in the spring semester for a total of eight credits per school year.
The A/B block schedule means students will attend four classes on Day A and four different classes on Day B for the entire school year. Each school's interpretation of the A/B block schedule will vary slightly to best meet each school's needs. For specific details about an individual school schedule, please contact the school.
While the district does not mandate a particular type of schedule at each school, administrators examined the schools with the highest student mobility rate and worked on a scheduling plan that includes all high schools in that area. As a result, the district is able to offer the same schedule at each high school within the areas of high mobility. In the fall of 2009, more than 90% of the district's highest mobility areas will be offering the same schedule. This should ease the transition for students who do switch schools.
By offering a block schedule, students are able to earn a total of 32 credits (8 each school year), as opposed to 24 possible credits under a traditional six-period day. This will help students meet new state curriculum standards designed to better prepare students for college and the workforce. The new standards require all students entering the 9th grade in the fall of 2009 and every year after to earn 22 credits to graduate, as opposed to 20 previously required. These students must also take at least three courses in a focused content area. For more information about new state standards, click here.
As mentioned, 11 comprehensive high schools will offer a block schedule. These are Antioch, Cane Ridge, Glencliff, Hillwood, Hunters Lane, Maplewood, McGavock, Pearl-Cohn, Overton, Stratford, and Whites Creek. Hillsboro will not use a block schedule, but a 7-period day. For more information about a specific school's schedule, please contact that school. |
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