High School Schedule Review Committee
As part of our ongoing commitment to the success of all students, we are reviewing whether to maintain the current 8-period block schedule at Monroe High School or return to a traditional 6-period schedule in the 2025-26 school year.
Background Information
Traditionally, most high schools have operated on a 6-period schedule, where students attend the same six classes daily, with each class lasting about 55 minutes. In Washington, students must earn a minimum of 24 credits to graduate, which means students in a 6-period schedule earn 6 credits per year, accumulating 24 credits over four years.
In 2019-2020, Monroe High School transitioned to an 8-period block schedule. With this schedule, students take eight classes per year, attending only four classes per day in alternating blocks, with each class lasting about 78 minutes. This allows students to earn up to 32 credits over four years, offering greater flexibility for electives, academic support, and credit recovery if needed. As part of this change, Monroe High School raised the graduation credit requirement to 30 credits.
Schedule Review Committee
After several years of using the 8-period schedule, Monroe High School is now evaluating whether to continue with it or return to a 6-period schedule as we continue striving to provide the best possible learning environment for all students. To guide this decision, the MHS Schedule Review Committee was formed, consisting of MHS staff, parents, and students. The committee began meeting in the spring of 2024 and was tasked with:
- Reviewing research on different scheduling options
- Gathering feedback from staff, students, and families
- Preparing a report for the Monroe School District Board of Directors
The final decision on whether to maintain the 8-period block schedule or switch to a different schedule will be made by the School Board, in partnership with the Superintendent and MHS administration. The Schedule Review Committee presented its findings to the School Board on November 12, 2024. The committee's full report can be viewed below.