DISTRICT LETTER SEEKS TO DEFEND CHS SCHEDULE PROPOSAL

The proposal to shorten the number of periods at Columbia High School, which has prompted a petition opposing the idea from students who object to having fewer options for courses each day, is being defended by the district' top guidance administrator.

Jennifer L. Giordano, SOMSD director of guidance and counseling services, issued a letter to CHS parents last week that indicated the district would seek to accommodate all needs under a new schedule.

The letter stated, in part:

Columbia High School has always supported and promoted students in exploring varied interests in addition to meeting their graduation requirements.  CHS’s standard practice of scheduling students for 7 courses gives students 35 credits per year (7 classes and a lunch period) for a total of 140 credits during their CHS career. This ensures they not only meet but surpass the state graduation requirement of 120 credits.  Every year, some of our students take more than the standard 35 credits/7 classes in order to pursue their personal passions or fit requirements into their schedule.

We are working on developing a bell schedule for 2016-2017 that will accommodate student needs, staffing and facilities realities.  As in prior years, we will do our best to accommodate additional course requests, where possible, given availability. 

See the entire letter HERE.

Superintendent John Ramos last week indicated a shorter schedule with fewer periods was being considered for the 2016-2017 school year, noting it was done in part to respond to some parents concerns that 1st period, at 7:30 a.m., was too early.

But many students say they like the earlier period that allows them to take more credits and gain points toward graduation easier.

A petition was launched Friday against the change, which has garnered more than 300 signatures so far.