New Schedule, Online Courses Bring in New Year at Arlington High School

When Arlington High School students return to class next Wednesday, they'll be on a new schedule.

All classes that meet six times a cycle will now have one 80-minute block, according to Principal Charles Skidmore. The previous schedule had 52-minute periods across the board.

"The decision was budget driven," said Skidmore, explaining that the school cut two science teachers for the coming year. "We used to have double-block science periods, but, without the staff, this was a cost-saving measure."

Despite the fact that the change was made due to financial constraints, Skidmore said it will also help foster a more comprehensive learning experience for teachers and students.

"We're excited about it," he said, "because this means all subjects will have this longer time period for working on group projects, one-on-one instruction, peer reviews and technology research."

The high school will also offer online courses for the first time.

There will be five courses for students, primarily juniors and seniors, who are interested in additional work. The courses – mythology, independent reading, the science of exercise, introduction to psychology and history of math – can be completed at home or on laptops that students can borrow from the library during school hours.

"This is an excellent opportunity for students who are seeking more challenges," Skidmore said. "Through this new venture, we are sending a message to students that learning doesn't just take place in the classroom and that it can be done for the love of knowledge."

Also new this year, Skidmore said, is the creation of a language-based program for special education students. Classroom teachers will be working closely with special education teachers to keep them informed about what is going on in the classroom in a collaboration designed to help students who have trouble either processing or presenting information.

This will be the second year of having a large international presence at the high school as well through Educatius, a company that recruits foreign students and places them with host families in Arlington.

Skidmore said the first year of the program brought a wonderful change to the high school by providing diversity and the enthusiasm the students have for Arlington and education in the United States.

"They become a vital fabric of our school," he said in reference to the 25 foreign students who will attend the high school this year. "They bring their cultural backgrounds and their excitement for the American way of life which allows out students to see what is good about their culture."

Last year, Skidmore said, the foreign students loved the dance, cooking and sports classes.

"They don't have sports in their schools but, rather, participate through clubs," he said. "So they are fascinated by the way we do things here in the United States."