Indian Hill principal proposes schedule overhaul to add daily MP time and open-study options

Andy Gruber, Indian Hill High School principal, presented a proposed redesign of the high school schedule that would add a daily “MP time” — a multi-purpose period combining lunch, academic support, clubs and wellness activities — intended to increase student choice and build time-management skills.

Gruber said the change is aimed at preparing “students for life beyond Drake Road,” by creating a predictable, purposeful break where students can meet with counselors, use a writing center or math tutors, join clubs, or participate in wellness activities. “This plan will do that,” he said, describing an all-day café, expanded use of the gym and media center, and flexible study locations across the building.

Under the proposal, the district would keep its current block schedule on some days while introducing a mix of seven-period and block days on others. The MP time would be guaranteed for students and used for targeted whole-building instruction on the district’s pillars (pride, integrity, leadership, respect and service), expanded collaboration between staff and students, and dedicated academic flex time.

On logistics, Gruber said the district plans an all-day grab-and-go café operated with partner Aramark, and digital ID check-ins to track student location during MP time. He described “open study” options that let students choose from cafeteria, media center or quieter study rooms, and said the district will provide tiered supports for freshmen through Bridges orientation, student mentorship and planned first-day activities.

Board members and parents asked about supervision, cafeteria charges and conflicting mandatory events. Gruber said charges would run through the existing lunch system and parents retain the same monitoring options they already have. He acknowledged there will be scheduling conflicts to resolve and emphasized a phased, collaborative rollout: “We’re going to start small, work to expand, and get routines and procedures in place for August,” he said.

Gruber noted the district tried a version of the plan as a limited trial last year, which produced mixed feedback but helped refine the current proposal. The board heard that off-campus privileges were not part of the immediate rollout and would be considered later.

Next steps: the presentation will be followed by additional planning with families, teachers and student leaders; implementation is planned to begin in August with ongoing adjustments based on feedback.