News Summary
The San Diego Unified School District is making a significant change by transitioning three high schools—Mira Mesa, Madison, and Canyon Hills—from a traditional six-period schedule to a 4×4 block schedule. This new system will allow students to focus on four classes each semester, with extended periods aimed at improving learning outcomes. While educators have mixed feelings about the change, there are hopes it will enhance academic performance and reduce stress for students. Other high schools in the district may evaluate the model for future adoption.
San Diego – The San Diego Unified School District has announced a significant shift in its academic scheduling for three high schools: Mira Mesa, Madison, and Canyon Hills. Starting in the upcoming school year, these schools will transition from a traditional six-period class schedule to a 4×4 block schedule, a decision unanimously approved by the District Board of Education during a recent meeting.
Under the new 4×4 schedule, students will attend four classes each semester instead of six classes over the entire school year. Each class period will be extended, lasting approximately 90-110 minutes, a change aimed at enhancing students’ learning experiences and academic performance. The board’s decision reflects a growing interest in more flexible academic structures that accommodate the evolving educational needs of students.
Educators have expressed mixed feelings about the change. Lili Fuller, an English and AVID teacher at Madison High School, has welcomed the potential for additional coursework but has also raised questions regarding course availability and the readiness of teachers to adapt to the new format. On the other hand, Nicole DeWitt, Deputy Superintendent of Instruction, highlighted positive outcomes from other districts that have adopted a 4×4 schedule, with many reporting maintained or improved Advanced Placement pass rates and overall student performance.
In a positive reflection of the schedule’s potential, the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts, which previously adopted the 4×4 model, reported beneficial results, emphasizing the effectiveness of such a scheduling system in enhancing student focus and reducing daily stress. One student reported that focusing only on four classes alleviates her academic pressure.
The decision to implement the 4×4 schedule in only three schools was influenced by the readiness of their respective communities for such a transformative shift. During discussions leading up to the board meeting, some teachers and parents expressed concerns about the adequacy of the decision-making process, particularly regarding whether this change would be implemented as a universal policy for all schools in the district or remain optional based on individual needs.
As of the 2028-29 school year, other high schools within the district will evaluate their own readiness to potentially adopt the 4×4 scheduling model based on their academic requirements and community input. Supporters of the 4×4 schedule emphasize its potential to help students meet graduation criteria amid increasing academic demands while also fostering deeper learning experiences.
Research on block scheduling has produced mixed results; although some studies highlight its positive effects on educational outcomes, others present challenges associated with lengthy class periods. Educators who favor the 4×4 model suggest that the reduction in daily transitions between classes allows for stronger relationships between teachers and students.
To ensure the successful implementation of the new schedule, plans are underway for educator training and assistance in lesson design to effectively utilize extended class periods. Additionally, the district will monitor data related to student outcomes and their preparedness for college and careers following the transition to the 4×4 schedule.
As this implementation plays a significant role in shaping the educational landscape of San Diego Unified School District, continuous community engagement and evaluation will be essential to address any concerns and maximize the benefits of the new scheduling approach.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
San Diego Schools Approve New 4×4 Block Schedule
San Diego High Schools Adopt New 4×4 Block Schedule
San Diego Unified School Board Adopts New 4×4 Block Schedule
San Diego Schools Consider New 4×4 Block Schedule
Additional Resources
- CBS 8: San Diego Unified School Board Vote
- Google Search: San Diego Unified School District high school schedule
- San Diego Union-Tribune: Block Class Schedules
- Google Scholar: Block Scheduling
- NBC San Diego: Schedule Changes
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Block Scheduling
- San Diego Union-Tribune: Changing Schedules
- Google News: San Diego school scheduling
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