Durham Community School outlines proposed schedules for grades 6 to 8 and music programs

The RSU 05 Board Meeting held on July 21, 2025, focused on the academic schedule for grades 6 to 8 at Durham Community School (DCS), with particular attention to class sizes and the band and chorus program. Principal Pitten presented the current draft schedules and addressed inquiries from board members regarding the educational framework.

The meeting began with a request from the board for detailed information on the grade 6 to 8 schedule, including the number of teachers and class sizes. Principal Pitten outlined the sixth-grade model, which consists of 51 students divided into three sections of 17, with daily classes in English Language Arts (ELA), math, and alternating science and social studies. He noted that adjustments are being considered to enhance science instruction, potentially increasing its allocation at the expense of humanities time.

For seventh and eighth grades, Pitten explained that teachers loop with students, meaning they teach both grades over two years. The anticipated enrollment for the next year includes 54 seventh graders and 48 eighth graders, resulting in a total of 102 students per teacher daily. The proposed schedule aims to maintain manageable class sizes, with plans for block scheduling to allow for more in-depth science instruction.

The discussion then shifted to the band and chorus program. Principal Pitten clarified that the current format for music instruction is complex due to the school's structure, which combines multiple grade levels. He explained that band and chorus activities are now offered both before and during school hours to accommodate students' participation in sports and music. This year marks the first implementation of this dual scheduling approach, which has received positive feedback from families.

The principal emphasized the challenges of balancing academic and extracurricular activities, particularly given the school's transportation schedule, which aligns with elementary school hours. He noted that adjustments have been made to ensure students can engage in both music and sports without compromising their academic responsibilities.

In conclusion, the board meeting provided a comprehensive overview of the academic scheduling and music program at DCS, highlighting ongoing efforts to optimize educational opportunities for students while addressing logistical challenges. Further discussions and refinements to the schedule are expected as the school year approaches.