My high school schedule isn’t preparing me for success. Here’s what would | Opinion

High School block schedule

Dear Enumclaw School District Superintendent Dr. Shaun Carey,

You don’t know me, but I’m sure you’ve heard my complaint many times before. Sounding like a broken record annoys me — especially being a music student — however my issue is not with the school district, it is with the way we structure our day at school.

Like many students here at Enumclaw High School, when I heard the block schedule was not an option, I was, for lack of better words, bummed out. Why couldn’t the administration see that students could and will benefit from a block schedule, even if it mean making sacrifices? Isn’t that the Theory of Action?

“If we are relentless in our pursuit of creating schools that engage students in learning that is authentic, deep, irresistible, and exciting, then we will succeed in preparing all students for success in the innovation era and success in life,” reads our strategic plan.

The current schedule our school uses is not preparing me for success, it’s making it very difficult to focus and do well in my classes. An A-B-A-B schedule could offer 6-8 classes per semester, accommodating up to 10 classes at once with 0-hour/7-hour courses. This change would also facilitate credit retrieval and benefit various school programs. It’s time to prioritize student well-being and academic success.

Switching to a block schedule with fewer classes and less homework reduces stress for everyone, including teachers. Although initially challenging, teachers adapting to this change find it less stressful than the traditional schedule. With fewer students each day, teachers can be more patient.

Research indicates that stressed teachers provide lower-quality instruction and struggle with classroom management and student relationships. When teachers are stressed, students tend to be as well, negatively impacting their academic performance and engagement.

The Enumclaw School District faces scrutiny over its spending decisions despite budget constraints. Recently, it struck a deal with the High School’s ASB to fund a van. This purchase primarily benefits sports programs, neglecting other school activities.

Instead of such unnecessary expenditures, resources should be directed towards initiatives benefiting the entire student body, like implementing a block schedule.

As a student heavily involved in extracurriculars like drama club, youth group, and theatre, managing nightly homework for all my core subjects alongside a job feels overwhelming. I’m aiming for a career in theatre, so I’ve prioritized Fine Arts credits, but I still need to complete my PE requirement. Despite participating in the school musical, I didn’t meet the PE criteria, adding to my workload. A block schedule would help balance my coursework and allow me to explore additional electives without sacrificing my performance in Fine Arts or core classes.

Students who support implementing a block schedule at Enumclaw High School — or any school for that matter — should advocate for it with the administration and school board.

A block schedule can significantly reduce stress and promote independence, creating a better learning environment and a more positive atmosphere between classes.

What’s better: four or six classes a day?

I think we all know the answer to that.

Emily “Griffin” Harper, Enumclaw High School student

This story was originally published May 18, 2024 at 8:00 AM.