West Aurora school plans to add an extra class per day

By adding an eighth class period to the West Aurora High School day, the school would not just be keeping up with its neighbors, but would be increasing the education of all its students, teachers said Monday.

Teachers Pat Butler and Deborah Quinn said adding a class period would keep students in school about 20 minutes more every day. Periods would be reduced from 54 minutes to 50 minutes.

The plan is just a concept at the moment, but one a committee of staff members has been considering -- on and off -- for over three years. The benefits include allowing students to take extra electives and work with teachers in smaller groups.

"We're trying to add a class, but also make this a smaller learning community," Quinn said.

Students would have a chance to take more electives that just are not available in a seven-period day. For instance, students often have to choose between taking band or an elective they may need for college.

With the extra period, college bound kids could add an elective to help find their interests, or they could add an instructional resource time. The period could also help at-risk students who need to take two core classes -- like English -- while still allowing them time for an elective.

In all, it would provide for a more rounded education Quinn said.

Outlining a proposed change to study halls, Butler said students would have several teachers in a large class, probably located in the cafeteria. With English, science and math teachers available, students could get a jump on their homework or solidify concepts in tough classes she said.

An instructional resource class could also be available during all periods. The classes would have about 20 students and target students not meeting expectations.

Although no concrete numbers will be available until further planning is done, Butler and Quinn estimated that adding an eighth hour would require an additional 12 to 15 teachers.

Teachers at West have backed the idea Butler said.

"It would open up so many more opportunities for kids. Staff is ready and looking for the O.K. (from the board of education) to keep going with the idea," Butler said.

The discussion will continue at the Sept. 3 board meeting.