Modified Block Schedule

Nolan Catholic High School uses a modified block schedule. Classes meet four days per week – three days for 45 minutes and one day for 85 minutes. In addition, an optional “zero” period class meets five days a week for 45 minutes.

There are several benefits to classes meeting three days per week for 45 minutes and one day per week for 85 minutes. The one extended class period a week gives extra time for science labs, tests and extended activities. The four day per week contact between students and teachers is beneficial for the subjects that require frequent interactions for high achievement, namely Fine Arts, Math, Science, and Foreign Language.

This modified schedule has two unique features of particular interest to families:

1. Each day will begin with a “Ø” period. This is a period that meets every day for 45 minutes, like classes under our current bell schedule. In a sense, this period is “optional,” in that students do not need to take classes during this period in order to graduate. However, many students will take classes during this period. “Ø” period begins at 7:45 a.m. most days; first period will begin at 8:35 a.m. (A body of educational research supports this change, stating that adolescents are better able to learn later in the day.)
   
   
2. On Thursdays, “Ø” period will begin at 8:45 a.m., and first period will begin at 9:35 a.m. Aside from the benefits of students learning later in the day, teachers will be able to take advantage of a weekly period to collaborate around curriculum development, improve instruction, and professional growth. It is a chance for teachers to work together on ways to continuously improve your students’ experience at Nolan Catholic High School.

       The late start once a week allows students to do such things as get some extra sleep, or make appointments with orthodontists and doctors without missing school or extra-curricular activities. Students who need to arrive at school at the normal time can get in extra studying or have time to socialize with friends.

Students who may need to arrive early any day because of transportation needs will be supervised by professional staff in the building.

 Regular Daily Schedule

 M T F Schedule – every class meets for 45 minutes – periods rotate

3 lunch periods

Block Days

 W TH Schedule – Block days – each class meets once for 85 minutes + Staff block for planning

 3 lunch periods