R. Roger Rowe Middle School Schedule Change: Building Community and Learning

Enhancing Relationships Through a New Schedule

Next school year, R. Roger Rowe School will implement an innovative schedule aimed at improving the educational experience for middle school students. Principal Lindsey Conley, during a recent Rancho Santa Fe School District board meeting, elaborated on changes designed to maximize the instructional day and strengthen student-teacher relationships.

Beginning in the 2025-26 academic year, the middle school will increase instructional blocks from 80 to 95 minutes, with Mondays transitioning to a seven-period day. This new structure will allow more time for critical subjects like science, history, and math, as well as semester-based electives. A noteworthy addition is a comprehensive English language arts course, which merges reading and writing into one cohesive class.

Building a Sense of Community with 'Eagle Time'

A significant introduction is the reimagined advisory period, dubbed 'Eagle Time.' This 30-minute session, scheduled from Tuesday to Friday, will help students foster connections with teachers and their peers, setting a positive tone for the rest of the day. Conley emphasizes the importance of community, stating that this connection has been a missing element in recent years.

Feedback from current students, particularly those who have transitioned to high school, highlights the need for stronger relationships with staff, which may have prompted these adjustments. By allocating time dedicated to personal interactions, the school aims to foster belonging and mutual support among the student body.

Addressing Parent Concerns and Critiques

While these changes are forward-thinking, they have garnered mixed reactions from parents. Some expressed dissatisfaction with the merging of reading and writing, a format that had been in place for over 15 years. Board member Annette Ross noted that many parents viewed the separation of these subjects as a valuable feature of the school's educational offerings.

Principal Conley urges families to see the positive aspects of this consolidation, suggesting that it will lead to a more unified instructional approach and strengthen teacher-student relationships, ultimately benefiting student assessments and learning outcomes.

Future Insights: A Path to Improvement

The district’s decision to revamp the middle school experience stems from a desire to enhance performance in state assessments and meet broader educational aspirations. Adjustments to the schedule are seen as foundational elements to creating an environment that prioritizes academic success while nurturing interpersonal connections.

By actively involving parents in discussions about these changes, the district aims to address concerns and build trust as they implement these new strategies. Organizations often face resistance to change, particularly from stakeholders who perceive a loss in valued traditions. Keeping an open dialogue with parents can help bridge understanding and foster support for these beneficial shifts.

Call for Community Involvement

As R. Roger Rowe School embarks on this transformative journey, it is essential for parents and the community to engage with the school district. Your feedback, insights, and support can play a crucial role in adapting these changes for the benefit of all students. Attend school meetings, communicate with educators, and stay informed to ensure the new schedule meets the needs of every child.