Pros & Cons Of Unit Lunch, Block Scheduling Discussed In Bridgewater-Raritan

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — Feedback, both positive and negative, was given by students on the new rotating block schedule and unit lunch at the Bridgewater-Raritan Regional High School during the recent Board of Education meeting.

High school representatives to the Board of Education, Anna Buckridge and Nandeenee Singh, both shared the report during the Oct. 25 meeting.

Block Scheduling

At first students were not a fan of the new scheduling, but have since adjusted, according to Buckridge.

She said that the schedule "reduces stress and in some cases has less homework because we have an increased amont of time to do it," said Buckridge.

Singh added that there was some negative impacts to the new schedule as she had five tests in one week.

"Even though there is less homework there are, surprisingly, a lot more tests or assessments on the same day so we are having multiple assessments 2 or 3 a day as they fall on the same day," said Singh.

Unit Lunch

While students have adjusted to the new lunch schedule, Singh said drawbacks remain such as the long lunch lines.

"That has been a huge problem for a lot of people. I think the big thing is when students leave during lab because they have waited in line so long they don't have much time to eat," said Singh.

Board Member Jessica Levitt asked that if the long lines continue for the Board to consider adding another lunch station.

Buckridge also said that while sitting outside on nicer days is a positive there is a lack of seating for when the weather isn't cooperating.

"There needs to be an increase in seating. When it rains, we see an increase of just chaos around the 100 building. When it is colder or it rains, there is not really a place for people who sit outside to go," said Buckridge.

Senior Privilege

To combat the long lines and limited seating, Singh and Buckridge proposed introducing "Senior Privilege" where seniors can leave the school campus during the day for their lunch period.

"This would open up the cafeteria and alleviate lunch lines. It gives seniors a bit more freedom," said Singh.

The students did note that this may create a problem in the parking lot becoming too crowded with seniors leaving or returning at the same time.

Superintendent Robert Beers said the administration has talked about "senior privilege." In order to implement it, the Board would have to create a policy on it, have a way to manage it, and make sure the Board agrees on whether it is "the right thing to do."

"Overall it is a great concept. A lot of schools do it," said Beers, who added that it is something the administration will work on through a special committee.

The next Board of Education meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 15, at the high school's media center.

To watch the complete meeting that was held on Oct. 27, visit the main page on the Bridgewater-Raritan Regional School District website and click on the About Us tab. Then scroll down to the Board of Education and click on BOE live.

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.