GBS moves toward block schedule for 2014-15 school year

After extensive review and consideration, the Board of Education approved the implementation of a "block" schedule at Glenbrook South starting with the 2014-15 school year.

"Teachers and administrators carefully considered various schedule options and the majority concluded that the A/B Block schedule would be the most beneficial for students," said Glenbrook South Principal Dr. Brian Wegley. "In addition, our parents and students are highly supportive of the new initiative."

The block schedule provides students with longer class times, fewer times per week. The schedule allows students and opportunity to take four, 90-minute classes each day for a total of eight classes over two days. The current period schedule used at GBS provides students with the option of taking up to seven classes per day.

Potential benefits of the block schedule include extended instructional time, increased opportunities for students to take classes, increased classroom utilization, additional time for access to support services, more time for teacher planning and collaboration, and less frequent passing periods.

The schedule review process began in 2011. Members of the committee conducted numerous meetings, visited other schools, studied research and worked with a scheduling expert to examine different schedule choices. They defined viable options and considered the strengths and challenges of both the current 8-period schedule and the A/B Block schedule. Parents, students and staff provided input as well in form of focus groups and informal surveys. A strong majority of participants favored the A/B Block schedule.

The district anticipates needing approximately five to six additional teachers to accommodate the new schedule, which offers students access to more course offerings. In the coming months, the administration will develop a transition plan, including staff development, to maximize the effectiveness of the longer instructional periods.

"As board members, it is up to us to determine how to support an expenditure that's in the best interest of our students," said Board President Skip Shein. "By approving this measure, we are ensuring that our students at both GBN and GBS enjoy the same opportunities."