Building Middle School Master Schedules

The following steps are offered to begin thinking about middle school schedules. Schedules are needed for teachers and students to achieve standards and instructional objectives while addressing the unique needs of early adolescent students. STEP 1: Connect with the mission/vision statement of the school or district Review wording of current statement; update where appropriate. Be…

Common Planning Time: A Major Factor to Enhance the Teaching/Learning Process – K-12

What is Common Planning Time or Collaboration? Common planning time or collaboration provides the opportunity for groups of teachers within a school to meet at defined times during the regular school day to discuss various aspects of the instructional program. Possible agenda items include: Assess aspects of the curriculum for a specific subject at a…

Organizational Designs for Intervention Programs

Across the nation numerous elementary, middle and high schools have implemented some form of intervention or student support program. Other schools are in the process of implementing, revising, or studying various options. Intervention programs reflect an ongoing analysis of student needs as well as the availability of teachers and other support staff. Often, contractual issues…

What are the Steps in Building a Contemporary High School Master Schedule?

Master schedules are road maps for delivering curriculum opportunities for students in grades 9-12. The following twenty-one steps provide specific directions for providing an efficient and equitable master schedule to guide staff and students. Ultimately, the final product is a mechanism for students to receive courses requested to reflect their unique needs, interests, skill levels…

Building a K-5 Master Schedule Including an Intervention Period

In ever increasing numbers, K-5 schools are implementing an intervention period as a significant portion of the school day. During a defined time each day, classroom teachers and available support personnel provide remediation, enrichment, and acceleration opportunities to students. Features of an Intervention Period Students may receive remediation, enrichment, or acceleration in a specific content…