Implementation ideas

I found this list online about implementing a block schedule and Ive added some of our own site specific issues.

1. Study current research on block scheduling. Get as familiar with it as possible
2. Visit other schools using the block
   
3. Survey the staff about their feelings toward the block; make sure they are in support of the change before proceeding. Without their approval, the change will be difficult to implement It is also important to win the approval of students and the community. They need be kept abreast of, and involved in, all important decisions.
4. Ensure teachers know that for students to be successful under the block, it will require them to alter their instructional methods. They will have to move away from lecturing and toward more active, hands-on teaching strategies that take full advantage of longer class periods
   
5. Provide teachers with ample time for staff development. They will most likely be nervous about the change, and need time and resources to figure out how they will adapt. Some suggestions include:
• Have teachers meet in groups prior to implementation of the block schedule to write sample 90-minute lesson plans and curriculum guides to share with one another
• Access different resources about block scheduling (videos, books, articles, etc.).
• Develop course-pacing guides that walk teachers through their new schedules .
• In the end, teachers will learn best by simply doing. Initially, teachers should not create lesson plans for more than a couple weeks in advance. After this, they will be more aware of how best to pace their classes and structure their lessons .
6. When designing the actual schedule, keep course-sequencing issues in mind. Also, accreditation and teacher contract policies and requirements must be adhered to
7. Have a policy in place that smoothly transitions transfer students from traditional schedules to the block schedule .
8. Continually monitor the effects of the new schedule on teaching and learning. Keep an open line of communication with all education stakeholders .
   
   
   
9. Coordinate the schedule so it will not interfere with WHS ROP programs that PHS students access, and vice versa .
   
10. Create a set testing calendar for mandated tests that take limited time from the classroom (PLAN, CAHSEE, CST/STAR)
11. Explore the possibility of eliminating the concept of Independent study contracts (one week = more than two weeks of material) It will not be practical to keep our current practice.
    
12. Figure out how classes like ASB that have to be all year are scheduled.

Regardless of how and why a school goes about implementing a block schedule, it is important to know that any attempt to change what is traditional will likely generate criticism. Keep this in mind before, during, and after the process has been implemented. Involving stakeholders at each stage of the decision making and planning