RHS - Block Schedule Information 2023-24

Hello RHS Families,

As we look ahead to next school year, several changes are underway to improve instruction and the academic supports provided to our students. One of the ways we will do this is through the bell schedule. We are pleased to announce that we will shift to a block class schedule starting in the 2023-2024 school year.

Students will take four classes (1st–4thperiod) on an ‘A’ day and four classes (5th–8thperiod) on a ‘B’ day. Fewer classes each day allows for more time in the classroom, which increases the opportunities for students to interact with the material they are learning and receive support in real time. It also allows for more time to complete science experiments and projects in classes like metals, woods, culinary, and art. Students will only need to manage homework for four classes each night, instead of seven. Plus, adding an eighth class to their schedule will allow students to explore more educational opportunities though our expansive elective course offerings.

Here’s a sample of how the schedule could look over two weeks:

Sample Schedule
Monday (Late Start)
"A" Day
Tuesday
"B" Day
Wednesday
"A" Day
Thursday
"B" Day
Friday
"A" Day
1st Period 5th Period 1st Period 5th Period 1st Period
2nd Period 6th Period 2nd Period 6th Period 2nd Period
1st Lunch 3rd Period 1st Lunch 7th Period 1st Lunch 3rd Period 1st Lunch 7th Period 1st Lunch 3rd Period
3rd Period 2nd Lunch 7th Period 2nd Lunch 3rd Period 2nd Lunch 7th Period 2nd Lunch 3rd Period 2nd Lunch
4th Period 8th Period 4th Period 8th Period 4th Period
Monday (Late Start)
"B" Day
Tuesday
"A" Day

Wednesday
"B" Day

Thursday
"A" Day
Friday
"B" Day
5th Period 1st Period 5th Period 1st Period 5th Period
6th Period 2nd Period 6th Period 2nd Period 6th Period
1st Lunch 7th Period 1st Lunch 3rd Period 1st Lunch 7th Period 1st Lunch 3rd Period 1st Lunch 7th Period
7th Period 2nd Lunch 3rd Period 2nd Lunch 7th Period 2nd Lunch 3rd Period 2nd Lunch 7th Period 2nd Lunch
8th Period 4th Period 8th Period 4th Period 8th Period

*Exact times are not yet determined*
 

Block Schedule FAQ:

How long will class be?

While the schedule is still being finalized, classes will be around 90 minutes.

Will the start and end times change?

Start and end times will only change by a few minutes, if at all.

Will Late Starts still be on Monday?

Yes, classes will be shorter on Mondays to accommodate Late Start, approximately 70 minutes

How many classes will my student take per year?
  • 9th and 10th graders will take eight classes each year.
  • 11th graders who are on-track to graduate can take choose to have one ‘free’ period.
  • 12th graders who are on-track to graduate can choose to take up to two ‘free’ periods.
  • There will be specific expectations students with ‘free’ periods must follow.
Will my student only have school every other day?

No, all students will be in school every day.

Will athletic or after school programs be limited by the new schedule?

No, we will still have a full range of athletic offerings and after-school club opportunities.

What effect will block scheduling have on student discipline?

Schools with block schedules report fewer discipline issues due to fewer transitions during the school day.

Will students attending the Center for Advanced Learning (CAL) be impacted by this change?

No, students will continue to transition at lunch time.