Data Shows New Braintree HS Schedule Increases Classroom Time

BRAINTREE, MA — The new schedule format at Braintree High School is getting the results school officials hoped for when they voted to move forward with the change for this school year.

Unlike previous years, students at the high school have seven classes with six 57-minute periods a day. According to data provided at Monday’s school committee meeting, study periods are down from an average of 57.2 per semester for the last three years to 49 during the fall semester. Classes with over 27 students are also down from 53 during the 2014-15 school year to 34 this year.

“I remember when this was presented there was some hesitation. It was tough to do something new but it seems to be working,” committee member David Ringius said.

School officials say the new schedule has led to an increase in .6 science classes, leading to the creation of an astronomy elective and lab classes with fewer than 24 students, a number that meets national safety recommendation.

”This was a multi-year project prior to me arriving and one of the things Braintree High School does well is be very thoughtful with changes. It went so well because it was planned so well,” Superintendent Frank Hackett said.

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