Masterman’s New Schedule Sparks Discourse

As the new school year approaches, Masterman administration is implementing new changes to policies, procedures, and curriculum. It is important to consider these changes, as with change comes the chance to learn and grow. However, some of the proposed changes have been controversial, sparking discussion and debate among students, parents, and teachers.

These changes will be affecting the entire school— both middle and high school —raising concerns for the entire Masterman student population. One particular change affecting the high school is the discontinuation of Pathways, added this year to ensure that all students were dismissed at 3:19 pm. Consequently, the removal of Pathways next school year will mean extended periods. Instead of the current eight periods, students will have seven longer class periods. This new change is not particularly favorable with the high school, considering that lunch periods will also be changed. Dissatisfaction with the middle school lunch periods has prompted administrators to change the lunch times of the middle school, directly affecting the lunchtime of the high school. The high school will now have lunch during sixth period instead of third period. Additionally, there will be changes to the curriculum. These changes include the addition of AP Seminar and AP African American Studies, and increased sections for Computer Science, AP Chemistry, and Music.

The aforementioned changes are not the only changes occurring this upcoming school year. Changes in the middle school curriculum are also taking place and causing controversy. According to the administration, some of these changes were decided due to strong community requests. For example, the new middle school curriculum will now include a return of World Language in the 8th grade and a full-time librarian. Additionally, there will be an increase in ELA and math periods for 7th and 8th graders. Students will also be able to be more engaged in a particular elective as they will have the opportunity to participate in these electives for two to three periods a week, instead of the current one to two periods. However, only certain grades will be permitted to participate in these electives. These changes initiated conflict, influencing the rally that occurred on Thursday, May 11, 2023 before school. Teachers, students, and parents gathered on the front steps of the patio and protested the changes. One sign read, “Art, Music, Health, Everyday” and another read, “All kids need gym.” The protest shows students’ concerns about these changes and their desire for their voices to be heard more prominently on issues that will affect them.