Middle School Schedule Adjustments Proposed
Following feedback from parents and middle school principals, Canyons academic leaders are proposing updates to the Middle School Schedule that was approved by the Board to be piloted at Indian Hills and Midvale middle schools this academic year.
The proposed changes would include a daily schedule of six, 60-minute class sessions. Additionally, Honors classes would be offered in English Language Arts and mathematics to any students who wish to challenge themselves; social studies classes would contain additional focus on reading and writing; teacher grade-level teams would be created among educators who share the same students; STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) in sixth grade would emphasize design thinking with space science as the focus; STEM classes would include life science in grade seven and physical science in grade eight; and elective courses would include world languages, visual and performing arts, music and additional Career and Technical Education (CTE) classes.
The Middle School Schedule creates more time for core academic courses, scheduled intervention and enrichment; flexibility to participate in a range of electives; and teacher teaming. The Board approved the pilot last January. Lessons learned are being used to refine of the schedule before proposed districtwide implementation in fall 2013, when the middle schools will be reconfigured to educate sixth- through eighth-grade students.
Board members praised the schedule for allowing students flexibility, elective choices, and teachers collaboration. Some principals in attendance said the schedule will provide the best quality education for students, but said some teachers are anxious to see what the schedule looks like and how it will work. President Tracy Scott Cowdell said the schedule is a way to improve educational delivery for students, and directed the Administration to set up community information meetings. The Board will again discuss the matter and possibly vote Nov. 13.
To listen to the discussion, please visit BoardDocs and click Agenda Item 2A.
Elementary Teacher Enhanced Planning Days Approved
The Board approved two elementary school early-out days on Thursday, Nov. 1, 2012, and Thursday, Feb. 28, 2013, to provide teachers with needed Enhanced Planning Days.
Board Action
The Board approved the Consent Agenda, which includes the Sept. 18 minutes, purchasing bids, September financial reports, home school affidavit, September hires and terminations. The Board also approved student overnight travel for the following groups: Alta Boys Soccer, Drill Team and Softball; and Brighton Baseball, Cheer, Model United Nations, and Softball.
Closed Session
The Board met in closed session for the purpose of discussing pending or reasonably imminent litigation and the purchase, exchange, or lease of real property.
