At a work session last week, the Highland school board had conversations about moving the high school to a modified block scheduling format for the 2021-22 school year. The proposal that drew the most in-depth discussion was to take the current eight period day and stretch it over two days, by having the students attend a set of four classes one day, and then another set of four classes the next day. Positives to this format, as noted by board members, included greater opportunity for intervention if a student is struggling in classes, more prep time for students, less homework and an increased opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities.

Concerns that were raised included working with Kirkwood Community College to still offer college prep courses on a changed schedule. Members of Highland administration have been talking with administrators from Cedar Rapids Xavier schools about this possible issue. No final decisions were made in the work session and this topic will remain on the agenda for future meetings.