update on high school scheduling

Update on High School SchedulingFEBRUARY 19, 2014

Concern Baltimore County Public

Schools’ middle and high school schedules are currently not aligned.

Current High School Schedules 12 have a 4-period A/B

day 3 have a 4-period day

semesterized 1 has a 6-period day 8 have a 7-period day

Decision Standardize middle and

high school schedules across the system.

The decision was not an easy one; however, it was one that had to be made in order to: Balance staffing

allocations. Review class sizes. Maximize student course

options. Review student mobility

around the county.

Staffing School staffing is based on

student enrollment. Staffing will only be adjusted

if student enrollment changes.

Standardized schedules allow for the maximum use of part-time teachers between schools.

Any staff savings will be returned to staffing allocations.

Class Sizes Schools will be shifting to

the 8-course model and be able to assign 6 sections to teachers.

Maximize Student Course Options

Students will be able to take 8 credits a year, providing them with the opportunity to: Participate in multiple completers. Participate in career research. Participate in an internship program. Participate in dual enrollment. Students will have additional

opportunities for credit recovery and access to support.

Mobility The mobility rate varies across

the county. As students transfer between

schools, current schedule inconsistencies often cause students to lose core credits.

The loss of core credits may impact a student’s ability to be promoted to the next grade level and/or graduate on time.

Resolution BCPS high schools will offer

all students the opportunity to earn 8 credits a year.

BCPS high schools will not offer a pure semesterized schedule.

Flexibility will be provided to schools making the transition.

2014-2015 Schedules Most schools have opted for

the 4-period A/B day schedule.

A few schools are considering a 4-period A/B day schedule with 1 day a week designated as an 8-period day.

One high school will adopt the 8-period day schedule.

QuestionsFEBRUARY 19, 2014