Our Innovative Scheduling Approach Supports Students!
Innovative approaches geared toward enhancing the success of High School students are continually emerging. As the Greek philosopher Heraclitus wrote: “The only constant in life is change.” Of course, this philosophy can apply to any area of an individual’s life. And, related to education, it carries an immense amount of meaning.
Iowa Choice Charter School Leaders, Faculty, and Educators collaboratively utilize their expertise to lead our school in a way that prioritizes the well-being of every Student! As a Public school focused on promoting accessibility and finding new ways to reshape educational environments, we know how important it is to take the road less traveled to create positive change. Through this Blog Post, we share the scheduling approaches implemented at Iowa Choice Charter School. These approaches may differ from those found across traditional educational environments. However, we believe these approaches create space for us to facilitate change across the realm of education.
Charting the Change | School Start Times
At Iowa Choice Charter School, no classes begin before 10 A.M. While most educational institutions begin classes much earlier, research has shown that later start times can impact the lives of Students for the better in many ways. These impacts include:
Bettering Sleep Hygiene - Adopting later start times for High School Students allows them to align their schedules more closely with their natural circadian rhythms, promoting better sleep hygiene. This life stage is critical for growth and development, and adequate sleep is crucial for overall health and wellness.
Academic Performance Enhancement - Adequate rest has a direct impact on academic performance. With later start times, Students can get the rest they need, allowing for better information retention and ultimately leading to enhanced learning outcomes.
Improving Physical and Mental Health - Schools that acknowledge the importance of sleep and adjust daily start times accordingly are investing in the health - both physical and mental - of Students. Well-rested Students are more alert, focused, and better equipped to handle any challenges that arise throughout the day.
Charting the Change | Student Workload
Students who attend Iowa Choice Charter School must work on at least two classes at a time. Other High Schools typically uphold standards that outline a minimum class requirement that is much higher. Various studies have revealed that reducing the number of classes Students are responsible for simultaneously is directly associated with an array of positive impacts. These impacts include:
Expanding Exploration Opportunities - With fewer classes, Students have more opportunities to explore their interests. With a more manageable course load, Students can invest time in extracurricular activities, internships, or even pursue independent research projects. This personalized approach creates space for Students to discover their passions as they transition from High School to the next phase of their education or careers.
Lessening Stress and Burnout - Reducing the number of classes Students take at one time can alleviate the burden and stress of a demanding academic schedule. This shift reduces the risk of burnout and allows Students more time for deeper study of their current coursework, ensuring a greater understanding of class subjects.
Supporting Life Balance - Students often face a relentless workload, balancing multiple classes, extracurricular activities, and social commitments. A more balanced educational workload leads to a more fulfilling High School experience and positively contributes to a more balanced life.
As education continues to evolve, change is inevitable. Iowa Choice Charter School embraces change by implementing new approaches founded on our desire to see Students thrive academically and personally. When we put the well-being of our Students first, we empower them to succeed now and in the future. And, as we remain open to change and lead by example, we empower other educational providers to do the same!
