Master Schedule Analysis and Reform Recommendations Ramapo Indian Hills Regional District December 9, 2013

Brief History of Master Schedule Review at RIH Report of the District Action Committee Investigating Alternatives to the Current Master Schedule - January 5, 2011 Master Schedule Consideration – December 4, 2012 Master Schedule Analysis and Reform Recommendations - Tonight

Basic Differences Between and Prior Models 75 Minute Single / Lunch Activity / Extra Help Block Actually Created a Block Schedule Within Genesis Conducted a More Detailed Financial Analysis

Curriculum Implications of “The Block” General Advantages Increased Instructional Time Supports In – Depth Learning and Use of Variety of Instructional Methods More Manageable Workload for Students and Teachers Reduction in Passing Time Variety

Curriculum Implications of “The Block” General Disadvantages Classes Do Not Meet Every Day Some Students Have Difficulty With Rotation Fewer Lunch Periods

Specific Analysis of RIH Block Reduction in Science Instructional Time From 11,610 to: 10,440 or 9,405 (varies based upon version of block) Possible Negative Impact on Electives

Financial Analysis Modification to Current Lunch Schedule Will Add to Operating Costs Possible 500 Students in Gym Would Require / Result In Cafeteria Tables / Floor Protective Mats Additional Labor for Cleaning and Serving Longer lines / Additional Serving Stations Need for Additional Areas in Buildings for Lunch Since 100 Students Would Still Need Seating

Financial Analysis Our Food Service Provider Would Need or Experience Storage Areas Mobile Equipment POS Stations (cash registers) Facility Workers Possible Reduction of Sales Estimated Potential Cost Increase of One Time Start Up - $50,000 to $150,000 Ongoing Costs - $130,000 per year

Financial Analysis If the Length of the Student Day Was Expanded to Accommodate the Block, Transportation Costs Would Increase by Approximately $230,000.

Recommendations The Proposed (2013 – 2014) Block is Not Recommended A Modification of the Current 43 Minute Schedule is Recommended for 2014 – 2015 Goal is to Incorporate Beneficial Components of Block Scheduling Goal is to Incorporate Other Curriculum Gains Teacher Involvement Embraced

Where Do We Go From Here? Guided Inquiry Approach Based Upon Current Schedule Explore Use of Small Blocks Where Possible Involve Building and District School Improvement Panels

Advantages of This Approach Maintains Our Best Practices Potential to Add Elective Courses No Known Contractual Issues Addition of Phased In Credit Requirements / From 120 to 140 Revised Attendance Requirements From 15 Student Unexcused Absences to 10 Designate Testing Days

Advantages of This Approach Embraces “Pathways” Concept With Seven Options for Our Students 1. Art 2. Applied Consumer Science 3. Business 4. Communications (Ramapo) 5. Information Technology and Cyber Security (IH) 6. Music 7. Theatre

Agenda for School Improvement Panels Brainstorm Additional Electives Identify Courses / Programs / Grade levels That Can be “Blocked”

Questions?