The elementary design team has identified several key proposals to address the current challenges and create a more consistent and effective school experience for our students and they propose adding 15 minutes of time to the length of the student day in order to adequately address the first three components of their proposal.

First, they propose built-in time for individualized interventions and extensions to ensure that all students receive the support and enrichment they need.

Second, the team emphasizes the importance of establishing a daily morning meeting routine with explicit social and emotional learning opportunities to foster a sense of belonging and build essential life skills.

Third, they proposes maximizing instructional time while accounting for non-instructional tasks like snacks and transitions.

Finally, the team recommends increasing opportunities for collaboration, both within schools and across the district, to ensure consistency and to empower teachers to work together to enhance student learning.

This sample first grade schedule reflects the proposed changes, highlighting how we can create a more consistent and intentional structure for our elementary schools.

The schedule includes a dedicated 15-minute homeroom period each day, ensuring time for morning meetings and explicit social and emotional learning. This routine fosters a sense of community while setting a positive tone for the day.

Additionally, the schedule accounts for necessary transitions and non-instructional tasks without taking time away from core content areas. For example, you will see 20 minutes allotted during the morning recess time even though recess is 15 minutes and there is 45 min. allotted at the midday lunch recess time even though they are 40 min. This approach helps us maximize instructional time while addressing the logistical needs of the school day.