This week at HC, a scheduling change has been made regarding the advisory period. Advisory is a 25 minute period designed for students to receive support from adults, and have their individual needs met. Prior to this adjustment, advisory took place after third period, but it now begins at 8:25. The duration of the advisory period remains the same, but students now report to their first period class after advisory. The bell schedule for the first half of the school day has been shifted as a result.
This modification was announced in a recent email sent to HC families. It was disclosed that the change was prompted by a recent increase in the number of late students to first period. The increase is a result of various factors, including late buses and weather delays.
The announcement provoked mixed reactions from students and teachers. Students in particular have become accustomed to the break of advisory in between the first and second half of the school day, many using this time to prepare for their classes or take a mental break.
The email claimed the intention behind the scheduling change was to maximize instructional time and to provide students with guidance before their day starts. Prior to this transition, first period teachers were struggling to use their class time effectively because of the abundance of students filtering into class after 8:25.
The email also gave students an incentive to ensure they do not view this change as a postponed start to the school day, and to encourage students to be present at 8:25. The email reminded students that deficient attendance is reported to the KY Transportation Cabinet, and consequently, their drivers license may be subject to revocation.
While the change is expected to be in effect for the remainder of the 24-25 school year, the upcoming transition to block scheduling entails a more drastic change. Students should plan accordingly for morning traffic and weather conditions in order to arrive at school on time.
