Pinellas County Schools transitions to 7 period day for four high schools

The Pinellas County School Board convened on February 25, 2025, to discuss several key topics affecting the district, including a significant schedule change for four high schools and recent athletic achievements.

The meeting began with an update on the transition of four high schools from an 8-period block schedule to a traditional 7-period day, set to take effect in the 2025-2026 school year. This change aligns these schools with the district's other 13 high schools, allowing students to attend classes five days a week instead of the current model, which limits access to just two or three days. The decision was influenced by declining enrollment, which has dropped from over 6,500 students to approximately 4,800 since the block schedule was implemented. Despite the shift, officials assured that magnet programs and course offerings would remain unchanged. Parents and staff have been informed through frequently asked questions distributed last week, and ongoing meetings are being held to address any concerns.

In addition to the schedule update, the board recognized the achievements of student athletes in the Pinellas County Athletic Conference (PCAC). The meeting highlighted the winter season champions, including Bay Point Middle School boys and Safety Harbor Middle School girls in basketball, as well as the Gibbs boys and Lakewood girls at the high school level. The Osceola boys and Palm Harbor University girls were acknowledged for their soccer championships, while Boca Ciega High School girls and Palm Harbor University boys excelled in wrestling. Special recognition was given to the Palm Harbor University soccer teams for advancing to the final four in their respective sports, along with three basketball teams—Clearwater High School girls, St. Petersburg High School boys, and Gibbs boys—who will compete in the final four in Lakeland next week.

The meeting concluded with a note of encouragement for the Vox Nova Chamber Choir from Gibbs High School, which is set to perform in Spain and Portugal during spring break, with a Bon Voyage concert scheduled for March 2. Overall, the meeting addressed important changes in scheduling and celebrated the district's athletic accomplishments, reflecting the ongoing commitment to student engagement and success.