A poll conducted by The Osprey showed 92% of LOLHS students prefer this year’s schedule to that of years prior. Compared to having six classes a day, students now have four long classes every day with “mask breaks” each class. Though teachers may have less time overall to teach their classes this year, all teachers asked report they also prefer the new block schedule. There are many reasons students support the new schedule, but are they right in doing so? As we are currently in the start of the year, the effectiveness of the new schedule remains to be seen.

When students were asked why they preferred the new schedule, they cited  increased time for homework as well as an overall appreciation for a longer classes. One may expect high schoolers to object to an extra half hour added to each class, but in reality most enjoy fewer classes in one day and the feeling of greater ease settling into and focusing on class. It is important to note, however, that some students do have trouble concentrating through longer periods. This is where the “mask break,” which punctuates the school day and allows for a short stretch and rest for the students,  helps to recharge flagging concentration without losing the continuity of the day’s lesson. A benefit of only four of eight classes meeting every day is that students have more flexibility in completing work. If a student has a commitment one night, they have another night to do homework and avoid a missed assignment.

Objective benefits of this year’s schedule may also exist. During “mask breaks” students go outside, breathing in fresh air and absorbing nature; studies consistently demonstrate both mental and physical health benefits to time spent outside. Longer periods are also more similar to the lectures classes at the collegiate level, in this way the new schedule better prepares students for the next step in our education. Until the end of the year it will be impossible to know which schedule yields better results. Some teachers have voiced concern that the new schedule gives them fewer class periods to teach their material, but all admit that they can and do teach more in one period. As of right now, it seems the school may have stumbled onto a truly superior schedule for the day.