Parent, student feedback needed on NHS class schedule

Newberg High School leaders are seeking parent and student input to help determine the NHS class schedule for 2015-16.

The Oregon Department of Education is enforcing a statute that requires 130 hours of class time for each credit earned at every high school in Oregon. Under the current NHS schedule, we are short of that mark.

In order to have enough time to make the best scheduling decision for a positive learning
environment, the Newberg School District requested and was granted a waiver to have fewer class hours for the 2014-2015 school year. We are required to have a plan to rectify this issue by November 2014. The new schedule will take effect September of 2015.

After establishing criteria for best practice and reviewing numerous schedule options, three were chosen to move forward for discussion with staff, parents and students. All three of these allow enough time for students to earn 26 credits for regular diplomas or 28 credits for an honors diploma.

We ask that you thoughtfully consider all three options and rank them in order of preference: 1 for the top choice and 3 for least optimal. The committee leading this process thought it would be helpful to provide you with examples.

OPTION 1:   A/B Block

Eight semester-long (18 week) classes that meet every other day with longer periods (94 minutes).
● Consistent yearly schedule.
● Most scheduling options for enrichment and support.
● Thirty-two class options over four years to meet graduation requirements. (26 credits are required for and NHS diploma, 28 credits required for the Honors Diploma)

OPTION 2;  Trimester

Five trimester-long (12 week) classes that meet every day with medium length periods (71 minutes).
● Same classes daily for the duration of the trimester
● Optimal daily instructional time.
● Thirty class options over four years to meet graduation requirements.

OPTION 3:  7 periods

Seven semester-long (18 week) classes that meet every day with shorter periods (48 minutes).
● Daily classes.
● Consistent yearly schedule.
● Twenty- eight options over four years to meet graduation requirements