Mesquite ISD proposes seven-period middle-school day to expand CTE and reduce double-block fatigue
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Summary
District staff proposed moving sixth- and seventh-grade RLA and math from double blocks to single blocks and shifting to a seven-period day so class times are more balanced and students can access career-and-technical-education (CTE) and exploratory courses earlier; the change is planned to start next school year with no change to the school day start and end times.
District staff presented a proposal to revise middle-school schedules that would reduce double-blocking of core subjects and move to a seven-period day.
Dr. Morris told trustees the district studied comparison districts and internal data and convened focus groups and middle-school principals. The recommended model moves sixth- and seventh-grade RLA and math to single blocks and adjusts the schedule to seven periods so class length can be increased without lengthening the school day. The change aims to allow earlier exposure to CTE principles classes, career and college exploration in sixth and seventh grades, and Level 1 CTE offerings in eighth grade aligned with high school programs of study.
Dr. Morris said the change is not mandatory for every student; schools will preserve flexibility for students with special needs or those who need alternative scheduling. The district will finalize bell schedules with principals and is not changing the start or end time of the day. Trustees asked whether implementation would begin next school year and Dr. Morris confirmed the district plans to start the change in the upcoming school year.
Next steps: finalize bell schedules, align RLA curriculum to the new block model, and provide principals with the staffing guidance needed to place CTE options within master schedules.
No board vote was required at this informational presentation.
