High School Schedule Survey - Fayette County Schools

Parent Results

High School Day Survey for Parents 

Please provide any other information you would like for the committee to consider when making the decision as to which 

schedule to recommend to the Board of Education. 

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Q1. Please provide any other information you would like for the committee to consider when making the decision as to which schedule to recommend to 

the Board of Education. 

1 Powerpoint not very informatiove. Did the research include viewing schools outside GA that are highly successful with the 

most credits offered? If not, do it!!! Benchmark these schools. Why would we implement a gap in math, english, and 

science? Does it work? Show us data where real analysis was performed and what did you find. Don't have confidence 

in the research. Why didn't Fayette Co do this 20 years ago. GA is not the most 0progressive in terms of educating out 

students. Get with the program and do some learning outside of GA. Research twice and make a change once. We can 

do better than this!!!! 

2 Consideration should be given to the fact that the GPA of many gifted and AP students, tend to drop b/c those curricula 

lay a great amount of pressure on the students to consistently perform on task. Time management for these studuents is 

more of a parental function (constant oversight and follow up with school officials) than a student function. For this 

reason, longer school days will be counter productive. Not just for the gifted and AP student, but all students. Also, 

longer school days will require parents to make adjustments that many will not be able to control due to work schedules, 

rush hour traffic and the inability to oversee the student's activities later in the day, particularly if they ride the bus. 

Finally, consider the impact this will have on students who participate in extra-curricular activities. Thanks for asking! 

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3 consder the schedule that will allow students to comply to academic standards/hope scholarship. Sep 15, 2011 10:06 PM



4 i strongly think that just having 6 classes a day is already tiring for the students, and extending the day would just make 

the student lose focus and not pay attention. 

5 there needs to be more AP classes available. We don't have enough teachers or class times available for all the students 

who would like to take these. The survey didn't even address AP class importance. 

6 If you go with the Trimester schedule, consider starting school earlier than 8:40 so they can get out earlier to have more 

time to fit in work schedules, extracurricular activities and homework. 

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8 The current 6 period course schedule already stresses students out with the amount of homework given, 7 courses is 

detrimental now matter how it "spread over the week"! Mandate no homework during "breaks" also!!! 

9 Q 18 is bogus--it assumes I think any of the options are valid--"none of the above"/"leave things as they are was not a 

choice. This survey is invalid on its face-- from what I understand it was designed by someone (a High School 

Administrator) who has an agenda--a desired outcome. Further, I think the BOE's timing is way off--posting this survey 

prior to determining what you're going to do about changing the school schedule/calendar in light of the tax/money issue 

is putting the proverbial cart before the horse. Who is in charge of this stuff? 

10 My first child attended Columbus High School in Columbus, GA before finishing up at Fayette County High School. CHS 

was on a "block" system which is very simiiar to the 3x5 Trimester schedule that you've described. It was fantastic. You 

should have the committee visit CHS and see how their program works. In my opinion, CHS was the best school we ever 

attended. 

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11 The high school day was already increased by 20 minutes. Any additional time would be unnecessary and redundant. Sep 15, 2011 3:30 PM 

12 I would be very sad to have my children lose the opportunity to stay in the fine arts program all 4 years. With that, I also 

want them to have the opportunity to take other varieties of classed as well. 

13 Allowing parents to keep the current school schedule must definitely be an option. There is no requirement that we must 

change the schedule. The PPT did not provide a compelling argument for changing the schedule but the fact that keeping 

the existing is not an option gives the appearance of a bias pushing for a change. Kids who already have extracurricular 

activities outside of school don't have time for a longer school day or for optional electives. Please respect that kids can 

opt for these additional activities and should those efforts should be supported with a reasonable school day and not an 

overloaded schedule. 

14 This survey was not well constructed. The choices are limited and the responses do not fully address the questions being 

asked. Also, the questions being asked are biased. The responses that are available are directed toward the interest of 

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certain programs. Furthermore, seven classes each day is too much. Extending to a seven period day increases the 

opportunity for students to fail. The seven period day is lowering the expectations for the students. If a student knows 

there are more opportunities to compensate for failure, then the student will take those opportunities. Also, seven classes 

each day is too much for the teachers. I have taught on a 7 period day and it was hectic. As a result, there was very little 

time for planning and preparing to teach. Just as students cannot effectively learn when they are exhausted, teachers 

cannot effectively teach when they are exhausted. The six period day is the best option but of course it is not a choice on 

the survey. 

15 Please also consider how this will affect children with special needs, such as ADHD, etc. They get 'left in the dust' 

sometimes, which is why I favor most of the options with the 3X5 schedule. I have a child about to enter middle school 

next year. My husband and I are really concerned with how he will handle the 7 period day. Thank you for allowing us 

the opportunity to voice our opinions! 

16 I live in Fayette County, however I work for Atlanta Public Schools. I work in a high school which has transformed from 

traditional to smaller school communities. I have taught in APS for 22 years and the 7 period hybrid schedule does not 

work for our population of students. I am in support of the 7 day period because it is closer to what our fayette students 

are doing now and retention is better. The hybrid schedule resulted in a loss of retention for students/teachers and a lot 

of confusion through out the week. Also, the instructional time was 90minutes, which was too long for students and 

teachers. So, my vote is for the 7 day period. The other schedules have been a complete disaster in my experience. 

Please do not try them. 

17 Block scheduling is not good for many learners. Having a class that is long does not necessarily help the child learn 

more. There is a limit for attention span. The gaps in math practice and grammar/writing are of great concern, too. 

18 There was no discussion of the shortfall of funds, and how this would effect the high school schedule. If the day needs to 

be increased to meet the budgeting shortfall, then the 7 period day seems very unreasonable for the kids. 

19 The most important thing is all the required courses for college admission is taken care of, the rest are ELECTIVES! I've 

been looking at college admissions for out of state alot of them require 4 years of foreign language and social studies! We 

only require 2-3. 

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20 Some of these questions don't make sense to someone who has never had a high school student. Sep 15, 2011 10:04 AM 

21 I am not in favor of any type of schedule where my children would not be allowed to participate in the band program. Sep 15, 2011 8:54 AM 

22 More school day time less weekday time so mon-thurs Sep 15, 2011 1:18 AM 

23 If the students could keep their musical classes all year as well as AP courses then the 3X5 would be the best scenario. 

If they would end up missing out on one or more of these courses in one of the three trimesters due to scheduling 

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conflicts then the 7 period option would be better suited. I'm not sure how often or likely it would be for the students to 

remain in the same musical class all year when only is offered. The same with the AP courses that are only scheduled 

for one period a day. 

24 As 45 & 47 yr old grads of GA public schools, the trimester is familiar to us as it was used during our HS years. We're 

both successful GT grads, so it served us effectively. It would have been nice to have a second choice which would have 

been the straight 7 period day and not the hybrid. The hybrid seems confusing. 

25 10 to 15 minutes/day longer is O.K...Hybrid is too complicated (Keep it Simple)...Keep summer-time for families (no 

school)... 

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26 The 7 period day is simple and easy to remember. This is a good, consistent model for young teens. Sep 14, 2011 10:09 PM 

27 I believe the 3x5 would be a much more manageable load and would lead to greater success for my child. I like that it 

offers a greater number of courses over the four years. I DO NOT want the length of the school day to be increased. I 

DO NOT want our summer vacation to be shortened. 

28 WOW!! What a biased survey! Where is the option for keeping the present system (6 periods a day). Methinks 

somebody is trying to manipulate the data! 

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29 As a single parent it really helps to have my child have a set schedule every day during the school year. Sep 14, 2011 8:40 PM 

30 I think it is a mistake to do the 3x5 or hybrid. The problem with gap time will become a huge problem in the high schools. 

You will also find students having a hard getting certain courses such 10th English Part B because of the smaller number 

of seats available in the schedule. You only have 5 periods offered rather than 6. The scheduler for the school has much 

more work to do trying to schedule in the 3x5 schedule. The teachers in the 7th period day are still preparing for the 

same amount of class and get another period off. You will do great damage to the music programs by doing a 3x5 day. 

Other systems who have tried this have students in one band class the first trimester, a lower one the second one and 

even another one in the third trimester. Because of the lower amount of seats in AP classes, the demand will be high. If 

a AP student takes a class the first and second trimester, they have to wait to the end of the third trimester to take the AP 

exam. Not a good use of time. Students who finish English A and B the first and second trimester have to take the end 

of courses test right after Feb. or have to wait to the end of the year to take it. The 3x5 and hybrid are poor choices for 

our kids. I vote for the 7 period day. 

31 I currently teach in a school system with a 7 period hybrid schedule. All the teachers and administrators HATE IT!!!!! It is 

not in the best interest of students who are consisten=tly confused about what "day" or classes they attend. This option is 

not a quality education option. Please talk with educators (not district officials) about how this option does a great 

disbenefit to students. If Fayette County wants to continue to be a district of academic excellence, it will not follow the 

lead of districts like Clayton County that have instituted the 7-period hybrid schedule. If it happens, I will consider moving 

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out of district. 

32 From talking to young adults who have experienced both a traditional high school schedule & the 3x5 schedule, they 

personally liked the 3x5 stating it made the transition from a high school schedule to college schedule easier, feeling it 

contributed to a more successful Freshman year in college. I personally like the 3x5 schedule because it allows our 

children the opportunity to achieve the 28-32 credits and I like the longer classroom time and fewer subjects per trimester 

to a allow the students to really focus on their subject matter. 

33 The 3 x 5 has class periods that are too long. Attention spans must be taken into consideration. When will teachers 

prepare during the day for those classes? 

34 I like either of the 7 Period days. The Trimester is a real problem for kids who may already struggle and then don't get 

exposure to Math or English for 12 weeks. I think that a Trimester would really be a backwards move especially if you 

also have to give up teacher consistency. I think that the Hybrid Schedule will be most like college, and can teach to 

organize time and responsibilities. 

35 Comming from NY, we had 8 periods as well as a 0 period each day. giving students all requirements, granted it was a 

specialized HS, but it trained me to be ready for teh increased demands in college. these students are not learning those 

skills that they will need for a demanding collge career. 

36 The trimester schedule provides the students the maximum amount of credits of the three choices. It provides a standard 

schedule. Also, it provides the students to focus on only 5 classes each trimester. Having the same teacher throughout 

the year is not that important. Yes, if you have a good one you would want to keep them for the whole year, but what 

about having an undesirable teacher. If that occurs, it is only 1 trimester they would have him/her. 

37 The only way the 3 x 5 would work well is if all core classes were offered in the first 2 (or all 3) trimesters and electives 

were offered in the 3rd trimester. breaking up the core classes WILL NOT WORK. I experienced this in college, on a 

quarter system, and for core classes, the retention of what you learned the first quarter was not not adequate! DO NOT 

DO THAT! 

38 IF should be offered as an elective ONLY, not a required class for students who do their HOMEwork a HOME. Thank 

you. 

39 Giving the kids an opportunity to have more flexibility in their schedule will be great. With all the college prep courses, 

having the opportunity to take some electives that will make their high school years more enjoyable and broader would 

benefit everyone. I believe in the end, everyone would be happier. Gives teachers and students a cushion to complete 

the requirements. 

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40 Consistency would be best. Having different schedules on different days of the week will be hard for my child. Slightly Sep 14, 2011 10:55 AM



longer school day and trimester schedule is the best for my family. I do want the kids to have the option to take an 

elective. However, I assumed a foreign language is a requirement in middle school and high school. AP classes must be 

available and recovery classes must be available. 

41 My concern would be the lenght of time in one class in 3X5 trimester and also the lapse of taking courses like math and 

their is too much time between offerings of the classes. I think some of the electives such as foreign language and 

business cousres are critical to entering college. 

42 Fayette County needs to get creative for the benefit of gifted students in the county. The system will lose my son if more 

education options are not given. Other systems have high performance high schools giving more options. But FC does 

not. 

43 Stongly opposed to the 3x5 trimester largely due to the fact that continuity between classes (instructors, content) could be 

lost when/if a student has to skip a trimester between courses. i.e. If Calculus1(partA) is taught trimester 1 then student 

has to wait until Trimester 3 to take Calculus1(partB) - retention would be an issue. Instructors would have to spend time 

reviewing information taught in PartA. 

44 I believe the 6 period day would work the best. After so much time at school the children will not want to be there any 

more resulting in kids doing poorly in that final class if one was to make the day longer 

45 We like the 6 period day! Do not change a thing! If you are considering a change: change to NO School on Fridays and 

have it be online school! 

46 How will transfer students adjust to a 3x5 schedule? Also, will the school calendar change to have a natural flow from 

one 12 week course to the other? 

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47 The hybrid schedule is the least effective by disrupting the child's routine. Sep 13, 2011 9:14 PM 

48 Great PowerPoint. Thank you for giving us the chance to explore options on our own time schedule. Sep 13, 2011 9:09 PM 

49 Do we have less students being accepted to GA colleges and universities than other counties in GA? If not, why mess 

with what is working. If a student is motivated and wants to take 7 classes, zero period is already offered. Let's fix the 

math problem in Fayette County before we create another problem. 

50 A bigger deal has been made out of this than necessary. the 7 day schedule is simple, effective, and adds about 15 min 

to the day. It is the total number of days for Christmas holidays, MLK, and winter break that needs to be reduced in time 

off, with summer being longer at 3 months for students to work for college, take a break, have time with their families. No 

one needs almost three weeks off for Christmas, plus a 3 day weekend, plus the winter break. We already know from 

your information on this, that 3 full summer months off now will not cause loss of "retention"! School should NOT start till 

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after Labor day weekend or at LEAST the LAST week of August to save us taxpayers money and let kids earn money!! 

Save us taxpayers money, and maybe with shorter holidays, the kids would not have sooo much homework every night 

that they could "feel" refreshed every day, and get some of this ridiculous pressure off of them! Grow up Fayette county 

Board of Education!!! 

51 Please don't ever take away the Fine Arts Dept.! My child was given a gift from God with his beautiful voice and I love that 

he is being given the opportunity to use it in such a wonderful program, Select Chorus at Fayette Co.High School, which 

is world famous in choral programs. Thank you, FCBOE, for allowing Select Chorus to be a tradition here in Fayette 

County for 34 yrs. 

52 Not a 4 day school week with 7 periods squeezed into 4 days-way too much expected of kids in regards to AP homework, 

tests, etc. Remove intsructional focus it is a waste of time! Kids don't get help in areas needed when they need it because 

of scheduling and a teacher doesn't always offer all courses to meet each students needs. 

53 Most children who are struggling seem to have outside tutoring anyway. None of these options is good. when there is 

such a push at some high schools to go for "ivy league" colleges, there is NO counselor that can help them - the parents 

do all the work. This survey seems to be geared towards students ONLY attending a Georgia college. colleges already 

take into consideration the amount of APs taught at a school - why have more AP classes when many of the AP teachers 

are NOT qualified to teach - they may have all the paperwork that gives the credentials to teach, but they cannot teach 

the subject. Most students who are failing don't even want to be in school anyway. This survey is far too one-sided. 

54 For those students that would like to do dual enrollment, I don't see how any schedule other than 7-period day would 

work. I am a former math teacher, and I think the 3x5 trimester would be detrimental. Many kids would go 6 months w/o 

math (counting summer)! Also, what about the impact on music (out of practice) and weight training for athletes? If you 

are going to do 7-periods, there needs to be plenty of low-stress, no homework electives that kids can choose from so 

they won't be overwhelmed. Thanks 

55 Allow more AP options in the high schools. All Fayette County HS should have the same options for attending AP. There 

is a disparity between the schools and this is a disservice to the students, prohibiting them from being competitive for 

college entry. 

56 The school board et al should do whatever it takes to make it easier for our students to meet the college application 

requirements without difficulty. The shool board should operate from the perspective that a larger percentage of students 

will attend college and the shool board is doing what it takes for students to meet the minimum requirements with 

opportunities for the students to exceed those requirments. A longer school day, with more instructional time and 

opportunities for students to participate in fine arts and take language electives as well as athletic extra curricular 

activities is the way to go! Congratulations to FCBOE for jumping into the 21st century when it comes to our children's 

education. This is just the beginning. We can not be complacent but must continue to push forward so that the stigma of 

poor educational systems can change and not negatively impact the future of our students. 

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57 Allowing more options creates a well rounded child and allows the student to grow and enjoy what's important to them 

during their high school years! 

58 I urge you to carefully consider the consequences of your decision about the schedule change. While I understand a 

change is needed, I feel ADAMANT that any gap between instruction and EOY or AP tests will be detrimental to the 

success of our students. Please do not choose the 3x5 trimester option. 

59 Where's the choice to keep it as is? Why are we going to spend money (it WILL cost money to make a change) on this 

when our school system is broke?! We had enough experiments with the math curriculum. No more experiments with my 

kids. 

60 addtional period meets all needs and 3x5 hybrid is dysfunctional in improving knowledge base for college bound students 

in that it is disruptive unless you plan on co-oping for part of your day. 

61 I am more concerned about the content of courses and the instructional activities than about the schedule per se. I feel 

that there can be more opportunity for active participation and project-oriented learning when class periods are longer. I 

believe that this can provide the opportunity for teachers to challenge students and encourage them to reflect on 

information, integrate concepts, and apply information in meaningful ways. This can allow students to remain more 

intellectually curious, more active and self-directed in their learning, and more skilled in critical/evaluative thinking. It can 

allow opportunities to connect academic learning to moral/ethical decision-making and meaningful community 

involvement. These qualities are crucial for success in college and beyond, as well as for retaining enjoyment of learning. 

IF the longer "block" classes of the proposed trimester system are used for this kind of active learning, then they would be 

superior to the shorter-period/ more-classes-per-day schedule. If longer classes were used for memorizing endless facts, 

completing worksheets, and learning how to select the right answer on tests, then the length of the class period and 

number of weeks in each class would be irrelevant. 

62 Multiple answers are required for some of the questions above. Children need the option to have many years of foreign 

language, AP classes as well as othere electives. One of my children has a passion for chorus and band. Why limit 

children. Some type of 7 period day schedule is needed. A 7 period day is what the middle school utilize and they still 

have time to get teacher help "warrior time" at JC Booth. 

63 I think the families should have been involved before the board made these decisions. I think that the fine arts (and I am 

an artist) should be an after school thing. OUr students are already low when it comes to Eng. Math Science History. By 

the way I did not see one history course offered. Once our kids are in college they can persue extra curricular activities. 

We need to quit trying to offer everything and offer the important basics. IF people need extra help, they get it after 

school. If they don't keep their grades they don't play sports. It is the students and parents responsibility to make the 

grades. Yes, there should be help but that is after school which would give them more incentive to study. I hope the high 

schools give more homework than the middle schools. This idea of no homework is teaching the students that they don't 

need to work outside of class. They are going to be in big trouble when they get to college. OUr students are being 

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coddled. I do not like any of these choices. If there are AP students, they could test out of the subjects and get their 

credits that way and still be able to take the AP courses. WE could cut out the Feb. week long vacation since they just 

had one a month or so ago. WHat about a schedule like this everyday: English Math Science History Foreign Language 

PE THere is your 6 period day. Band, sports etc. after school. 

64 on the 3x5 schedule, have Eng1Aand Eng1B the 1st 2 trimesters then in the 3rd trimester let them take the AP, 

Band,etc. class in the spring. But DO NOT break up classes with two parts. 

65 Students on college track who are high achievers can handle the extra courseload and would make better use of the 

extra period to advance their studies. 

66 Fayette County has a good reputation for superior education performance. I strongly believe we should provide the 

students to get more credits that will meet college requirements. I also strongly believe that AP/Band students should 

not have to make difficult decisions because of class schedule conflicts. 

67 Begin after Labor Day End Memorial Day Students that are college bound should have schedules linked to college 

schedule. For instance, my son attends Savannah College of Art and Designs. This private institution has classes 

Monday - Thursday. The instructors give them so much academic work that Friday is considered a class day but outside 

of the class. Class work is scheduled for Fridays as well. Have classes set up to linked/liason to college. Students make 

choices geared to vocation/career of choice. Classes should be focus toward major/minors in college. More classes on 

managing money. 

68 Where is the option for keeping the schedule as it is? It WILL cost money to change the schedule. Why are we 

considering this during a budget crisis? Plus, student achievement WILL drop initially if you move to a trimester or block. 

Many of us have seniors that suffered through the change of the math curriculum. Can we get a break for our younger 

kids? I don't want the lower scores that will come with a schedule change. 

69 I feel that in addition to providing more opportunities for the arts and for AP learning... the 3x5 offers a better daily 

schedule for our teachers with a better ability to spend more individual time with students as well as bring a larger wealth 

of understanding. I believe that this layout is more similar to collegiate layout as well. Adding more classes at once 

doesn't help, but allowing more classes and relieving the level of stress at the same time seems like a win, win. I do think 

you need to post a proposed yearly calendar for this however to make sure that people are clear about the way it would 

be laid out, even though it's the same amount of weeks. 

70 Concerned with teacher retraining for longer periords. Per my HS students, most teachers lecture and do not use 

interactive type teachig stratgies so I would be concerened with the 90 minute classes on well teachers would really 

adjust even with additional training. I have been told that the classes are boring and it is hard to stay awake. 

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71 I have older children who've been able to get fine arts scholarships to college, but my younger child is losing that Sep 12, 2011 10:08 AM



opportunity because it's too difficult to fit fine arts electives into the schedule and still do AP classes, foreign language, 

etc. It is IMPERATIVE that we move to a 7-period day to give our kids the adequate time to get in all of the electives or 

other classes they desire during all 4 years of high school. 

72 I'm thankful that you have given me an opportunity to express my thoughts regarding this matter. I'm not enthused about 

either choice. Although I think it is great for the students to have more chances to explore the electives, I also feel the 

need for a more consistent schedule and teacher will benefit the kids better. Also, the longer day just doesn't sound like a 

good fix for those kids who are struggling. If the electives (ex. drawing, design) were changed to fit a semester option as 

opposed to year round maybe this would help. This would exclude electives under Fine Arts or Foreign Language. 

73 For those students who enjoy being in the fine arts program, the 3x5 trimester schedule would create a gap in their fine 

arts' competitive program, which is what most Fayette County schools' fine arts programs value. 

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74 My student is doing excellent academically and is a Jr. We want what is in her best interest. Sep 10, 2011 10:38 PM 

75 Don't think it is fair to penalize students who do well by making them attend instructional focus periods and have a longer 

school day. This is teaching to the bottom of the class, and although this may be politically correct, is unfair to the 

brightest students. I think it's OK to have those who need it take instructional focus and let the others take something 

else. 

76 We need more emphasis on dual enrollment with college courses. My 2008 and 2011 graduates senior year was nothing 

but a box checked. We need innovative solutions! 

77 If a foreign language is required to enter college (considering that a high % of students do attend college), these classes 

MUST become required. Some colleges require 4-years of a foreign language, putting our children in a disadvantage to 

explore electives. I don't think is fair that students have to give up their electives in order to fullfill a requirement. 

Electives help students learn about a field of interest, before making the tough decision on what career path they'll make 

BEFORE getting themselves into a particular college/field. 

78 Some of the answers above aren't relevant as my child is a freshman. But, I think it is very important for her to be able to 

be competitive in college by having 3-4 years of foreign language, but also explore and expand her experience in all the 

fine arts areas, or even vocational training. These are often just as important as core classes to some who are going into 

fine art and like health fields. 

79 Perhaps the 7th period could be optional. If a child is doing well fitting in the classes they need in a 6 period, then they do 

not have to be assigned the 7th. 7th is literally for those who either need the credit recovery or the elective that would not 

fit due to core. 

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80 I would like to see the high schools promote the option for online studies thru Ga Cyber Academy. Most students and Sep 9, 2011 9:40 PM



parents of not aware of it. I think it would save money and time and allow more independent learning for the student who 

is capable of handling independent studies. 

81 As an educator, I feel that the 3 x 5 trimester schedule best suits the students in several ways. First, this type of schedule 

allows students to focus on fewer subjects as opposed to having manage many more academic subjects with a 7 period 

day. The amount of homework that comes with 7 period classes is tremendous. Second, the fewer classes allows for 

longer periods which gives the students opportunities to learn the material in different modalities, such as more lab time. 

Finally, this schedule is a mini version of what students going to college will have. Yes, there are teachers who will need 

to learn some new teaching techniques and strategies but those only benefit the students and the teachers. I know 

people don't like change but I think the change to 3 x 5 trimester would be for the best. 

82 We asked our children to look at the material and give us their thoughts. One is in high school now. The next one 

graduated from high school in our county 2 yrs ago and is in college now.Our other one graduated from h.s. in our county 

6 yrs. ago and has graduated from college. Interestingly all 3 chose Trimester as first choice and Hybrid as 2nd choice. 

They prefer less classes at a time instead of more. 7 traditional periods is too much. And all said the 7 hybrid schedule 

would be confusing but preferred over the traditional 7. The trimester concentrates the material instead of dragging it out. 

They all have said longer lab times would be good.. 

83 I would like the Board of Education to consider not having all the schools breaks. Everytime I turn around the children are 

out of school. Our children need to learn as much as they can to be fully equipped to meet the challenges they will faced 

in the years to come. 

84 The 7 Period Day Hybrid Schedule would provide my child with an experience similar to what she will be expected to deal 

with in college. 

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Sep 9, 2011 9:16 PM 

Sep 9, 2011 5:55 PM 

Sep 9, 2011 5:51 PM 

Sep 9, 2011 11:25 AM 

85 better help sessions for students in chemistry and physics Sep 9, 2011 10:20 AM 

86 I would be interested in earlier days for high school and later start times for elementary. Sep 9, 2011 9:46 AM 

87 It sounds like the problem is one of quality, not available hours in the day. Please don't take away the traditional summer 

break. 

88 Please consider that the trimester schedule would also allow students to take more advanced courses through high 

school WITHOUT "doubling up" in any semester or year. For example, a student could take math each trimester and 

complete math I, II, and III by the end of the soph year. This would provide more students with advanced opportunities 

over the 4 years of high school without taking 2-3 math classes during the same semester. All students would benefit 

from this, not just "gifted" students. 

Sep 9, 2011 7:49 AM 

Sep 9, 2011 4:30 AM 

89 Our biggest worry would be teachers unable to utilize extended time with students. Having been through graduate school, Sep 8, 2011 10:11 PM



there is nothing more rewarding than a well-prepared lesson from a dedicated teacher and there is nothing more 

frustrating than sitting in a dull class where the teacher rambles on, gives busy-work, just to fill the time. Proper staff 

development is key. Students need to have adequate opportunity to take foreign languages, advanced placement 

classes, art classes etc. These changes will be good for the students. 

90 I asked my son who is a Senior what his choice would be and he liked the Trimester better. Sep 8, 2011 1:56 PM 

91 I also do like the 3x5 Trimester... as my additional option. Thank you. Sep 8, 2011 10:06 AM 

92 My family moved here from a school( Leo High School, Leo Indiana) that had a Trimester. When my son first scheduled 

his classes, I thought what Starr's Mill offered was limited as far as the variety of classes offered, and I also thought that it 

would be kind of boring having the same classes all year long as opposed to switching during the trimester. My son went 

all four years to Starr's Mill and is now in college. I just now asked his opinion and he said that he liked the trimesters 

better because classes were shorter overall and he didn't have to take the same class all year long, only 2 out of the 3. 

Plus another thing that I like about this is that the students get 30 credits. If I understand correctly, students needing help 

with a class would be more able to get it. Right now I have a daughter who is struggling in math. By the time she goes to 

see her teacher for extra help she only has somewhere around 10 minutes because of the time getting there and having 

to share the teacher with the other students who also need help. I am looking into getting her a tutor, but I wish Starr's 

Mill did like the colleges and offered different labs for students who need extra help. 

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Sep 7, 2011 9:29 PM 

93 Hands off Fine Arts and Band. Sep 7, 2011 9:20 PM 

94 We do not like the trimester system and believe that it will cause more harm than good. Sep 7, 2011 8:54 PM 

95 I believe this change is absolutely necessary, and I would support whichever is chosen. But, I like the hybrid schedule 

the best...a lot can be done in those extended class periods...great time for labs, group project work. My highschool 

worked on a similar schedule, but we actually had different ending times on the days when we had fewer classes. 

Sep 7, 2011 7:53 PM 

96 I vote to keep the traditional 6 Period day but that is not an option. Sep 7, 2011 6:33 PM 

97 I LOVE the Trimester I HATE the Hybrid I think the 7 periods could be overwhelming Sep 7, 2011 5:04 PM 

98 ALL YEAR ROUND SCHOOL Sep 7, 2011 4:14 PM 

99 need more vocational studies for all students to be able to work through college Sep 7, 2011 3:04 PM 

100 I do NOT like the potential "gaps" that could be there with some of the schedules! It could be more than 12 weeks also, if 

it is between school years--you have to take into consideration the summer months. 

Sep 7, 2011 2:04 PM



101 YOIU GUYYS ARE THE STUPIDEST POEPLE IN CHARGE I HAV EBER SEEN IN DIS AMZIN COUNTY WE HAVE 

HERE IN FAYTE COUNTY GAOERGIA MYT KID WORKS ROUND THE HIOUSE ALL DAY YOU GON TAKE HIM 

FROM ME? WER BROKE HE NEED TA WORK 

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Sep 7, 2011 1:40 PM 

102 The school calendar must be altered as well AND presented to the public before the decision is finalized. Sep 7, 2011 12:27 PM 

103 I would like block scheduling like my child did in a Catholic school in North Carolina and also in Australia. This allows the 

student to have a 6 or 7 day revolving schedule. So they do not take all the classes everyday... 

Sep 7, 2011 9:22 AM 

104 Start school in late August Sep 7, 2011 8:58 AM 

105 MY CHILD HAS 1 YEAR AFTER THIS. I DO NOT FEEL HE WILL BENEFIT FROM THESE CHANGES AT ALL. THIS 

ACTION WOULD HAVE IMPACTED HIS STUDY SKILLS 4 YEARS AGO AND EVEN A YEAR AGO. I WISH YOU MUCH 

SUCCESS,,,,,,,,,,,,, 

Sep 7, 2011 2:41 AM 

106 I cant imagine the kids sitting through a 70-75 min class, 5 classes a day, day after day. Sep 6, 2011 10:27 PM 

107 My son just graduated from FCHS, my daughter will start HS next year. He was in Orchestra all four years and it is so 

true that he was unable to take very many electives. I think having the option for more classes would be so much better. I 

also think that having five classes to concentrate on versus seven would be beneficial. 

108 Board should research how competitive Fayette students where in relation to other school districts offering more credit 

hours, i.e., scholarships, SAT/ACT scores etc. 

109 I think the options are well thought out. Thank you for your hard work on this. I like the consideration to raise the ability 

of the students to earn more valuable credits for college and beyond. 

110 I do not feel any of these three schedules meet my child's needs. This survey seems skewed for band, chorus and 

orchestra. My response to question #3 indicates that I am pleased with the 6-period day. The zero period option offers 

those interested the chance to have another elective for 4 years--but that is their choice...I do not feel it should be pushed 

on everyone! 

Sep 6, 2011 10:10 PM 

Sep 6, 2011 10:04 PM 

Sep 6, 2011 9:26 PM 

Sep 6, 2011 9:11 PM 

111 Keep things the way they are. Sep 6, 2011 4:18 PM 

112 Need to make sure that the core classes given in high school to perspective college student athlettes meet NCAA and 

NAIA eligibility. 

113 i would like to see the school open after Labor day and end before Memorial Day 2nd opyion: 4 days a week school 

schedule 

Sep 6, 2011 3:42 PM 

Sep 6, 2011 2:25 PM



114 I do think it is vital that students can continue with the same teacher in a particular content area. Sep 6, 2011 2:10 PM 

115 Adding more time to the school day is not a good option. Students already have homework and extra-curricular activities 

that take time after school. Extending school hours would have a severe negative impact on students who currently 

have jobs. 

116 The needs of the students should be considered whether they are planning for college, vocational or technical school. 

Teacher needs are also as important as they are the ones working with our children on a daily basis and preparing them 

for their future. 

117 Some survey! You ask communitry to take it and then dont offer a category for taking the test. I answered as if my 

college boy were still in school. Also, Q5 does not allow multiple answers. He required annual "recovery" and used 

several of the options. As a former student myself, I consider over 50 minute periods useful for only labs, etc. 

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Sep 6, 2011 10:42 AM 

Sep 6, 2011 7:58 AM 

Sep 6, 2011 5:56 AM 

118 The hybrid schedule is the least effective, in my opinion. Sep 6, 2011 2:52 AM 

119 AP classes and band are 2 important aspects to my children's education. I don't want them to miss out on these 

opportunities by moving to a schedule other than the 7 period day. Having a child with special needs, in high school, I 

know that frequent changing of teachers throughout the school year would be a detriment to his education, as well as 

extending the length of each period. 

Sep 5, 2011 11:46 PM 

120 I am completely opposed to the trimester schedule and feel that it is not in the best interest of our school system's needs. Sep 5, 2011 11:31 PM 

121 Consider instructional focus after second period or during the lunch window. Sep 5, 2011 11:23 PM 

122 The longer class period will give students the opportunity to focus on the subject and allow for more practice, which will 

make homework easier. 

Sep 5, 2011 11:09 PM 

123 The 3x5 Trimester is most like a college experience and I believe the vast majority of the students at MHS attend college. Sep 5, 2011 7:56 PM 

124 Do not like the 3 x 5 trimester schedule at all. Sep 5, 2011 5:24 PM 

125 It might be to everyones interest to have Band/Chorus/Orchestra in the Zero period offering, which would allow those 

students the opportunity to take more electives. It looks like the survey is focused on those students. As much as their 

parents pay for those activities I'm sure they would be more than happy to get them there for Zero period, which would 

allow them an extra elective slot during the day. If it is that important they will be at school ready for zero period. I think 

the tri-mester will create schedule issues if say a class is only offered in one of the tri-mesters, leaving students off path to 

take those classes they might like to take. 

Sep 5, 2011 5:16 PM



126 I am concerned with 7 period day, students that take more academic classes will have too much homework and outside 

work to complete and keep up with. 

127 I went to year around school and the retention seemed much higher than what I experience with my son. I am ok with the 

class day being longer as well as long as there is more teaching time to the core classes durign that time 

128 7 classes will either make my child do too much work, or the extra classes will even be a further waste of time. My son 

already talks about how he feels that he only needs half the day to learn what he is learning in a full day. 

129 Not all children were represented equally in this presentation. Children who fail, are advanced, or are discipline issues 

are mentioned throughout. What about the kids with learning disabilities ? Are the LD teachers (collaborative) going to 

be increased if the # of classes though out the day increase? This could cause a cost to the district, which I did not see 

under any option. One would also think that if this is not even addressed and they are not considered in this equation 

then there would be a discrimination issue for FCBOE, correct?. 

130 How can you consider lengthening the school day, when there has also been serious talk about going to a 4-day week 

due to budget cuts? High School students need time outside of school to work and engage in extra curricular activities 

that add breadth to their experiences. They do not need a longer school day. A well rounded person is not one who 

spends their entire day inside a building, and colleges are looking for people who are involved in their community and 

hold jobs in addition to a strong academic record. I am the parent of two children who have either taken band or chorus 

all four years. They had to make choices about their other classes, but they both ended up with strong academic records. 

I am OPPOSED to making a change in the high school schedule. 

131 None of the proposed schedules is ideal. 7 periods is probably too many if the students don't schedule a "down time" 

class or have opportunity for study hall. The Trimester is almost as bad as block scheduling for true learning (moves too 

fast). The hybrid schedule is just too confusing. If you go to the trimester schedule, what will you do if there's a week of 

snow. What about pep-rallies and other assemblies. Missing a day becomes much more critical affecting students who 

check out, athletes who leave early, and any other disruption in the day. And there are plenty of disruptions (I'm thinking 

firedrills, tornado drills, EOCT testing, graduation testing, etc.) Before changing the schedule, make sure you know how to 

protect the instructional time that will be at a premium. 

132 To have the hybrid schedule would be very confusing and provide too much inconsistency for our students. They need 

order and routine to function properly. To have the same teacher for the whole class too. Also, to allow for another class 

period would give students opportunities to take other electives and see where some potential career interests may lead. 

Our children are no longer given the opportunities to figure out what they might be good at, in terms of careers, before 

they head off to college and spend huge amounts of money in trying to decide what they would like to be. 15 minutes 

added to the day is not that bad when considering the positive opportunities that are more beneficial. We as parents and 

you as educators are responsible for setting high standards and expectations; not letting the students think it is alright to 

do just enough to get by. In terms of the 12 week "gap" during the year, if you mean to do away with the summer vacation 

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Sep 5, 2011 3:30 PM 

Sep 5, 2011 3:00 PM 

Sep 5, 2011 2:16 PM 

Sep 5, 2011 2:11 PM 

Sep 5, 2011 11:31 AM 

Sep 5, 2011 11:18 AM 

Sep 5, 2011 10:09 AM



then NO! Our children need to be kids and enjoy summer, family trips, and summer activities. If you are considering 

year-round school, I highly disagree. Please let our children be children a bit longer and allow us as families to have that 

time to be together. Statistics in Orange and Seminole Counties in Florida show that year-round schools did not improve 

test scores at all. (I was a teacher there) 

133 I like the idea of the trimester and 7 period day, w/o the hybrid. I think both would provide more courses for the students 

(which will individualize the education for all learners), align with the course requirements for entrance into colleges, as 

well as being more "teacher-friendly". 

134 This survey very hard to answer. It was answered with my current high schl child in mind. But there were several areas 

that I thought of my middle schl child. Could have been answered different! This survey seems to be in fav of the high end 

student. 

135 I think credit recovery is a joke. Students can get by with doing VERY little and still get credit. I"m less concerned with 

which schedule that is offered. Students do need to be able to take more classes without giving up other things. Also the 

AP classes should be weighted and given more towards GPA than other classes. 

136 My child is in K however, I feel that giving student every opportunity to accrue the proper amount of credits to be prepared 

for college is paramount. 

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Sep 5, 2011 10:03 AM 

Sep 5, 2011 8:25 AM 

Sep 5, 2011 7:19 AM 

Sep 4, 2011 11:28 PM 

137 I prefer the 3x5 trimester block, but am concerned it will not allow my child to continue with chorus. Sep 4, 2011 9:35 PM 

138 Please keep the HS day as it is currently. The Fayette County School System is very competitive when it comes to 

college applications. Please do not add more to our children's days. More classes, longer classes will just cause more 

stress on our children in the BEST school system in GA!!!! Not something I vote for. Keep Fayette HS schedules just as 

they are. Thank you!!! 

139 For students who struggle, determine if it is the students inability to learn or if the teachers aren't teaching.If it is the 

students, hold them back and have them repeat course(s). You can't save every student. 

Sep 4, 2011 8:35 PM 

Sep 4, 2011 6:20 PM 

140 Focus should be spent on re-doing the math program for middle and high school, but especially high school. Sep 4, 2011 6:05 PM 

141 The 7 Period Day Schedule is adequately challenging, not confusing, and an easy transition from middle school. Also, I 

like the sample schedule as it is shown on the Powerpoint presentation. 

Sep 4, 2011 5:59 PM 

142 Accel Program (dual-enrollment) would be difficult to schedule with the 3x5 trimester and 7 period hybrid schedules. Sep 4, 2011 5:48 PM 

143 My children have graduated but, as a parent of a graduated student, I felt that my feedback was also important. Sep 4, 2011 10:55 AM



144 My kids are in Elementary school. I feel that these decisions are not relevant to me right now. I am sure they will 

change again before my kids get to high school. 

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Sep 4, 2011 10:51 AM 

145 An additional survey is needed for parents whose children are not in high school. Too much was n/a. Sep 3, 2011 10:44 PM 

146 STONGLY NEED VOC/TECH CLASSES AVAILABLE TO ALL STUDENTS...ALL STUDENTS ARE NOT THE SAME, 

SOME WILL NEVER GO TO AN ACADEMIC COLLEGE, THEY NEED AN OPPORTUNITY TO GRADUATE AND 

BECOME AN ASSET TO SOCIETY THROUGH USING WHAT THEY ARE TALENTED WITH!! SPECIAL EDUCATION 

STUDENTS HAVE DIFFICULTY WITH THE ONE SIZE FITS ALL ACADEMIC DIPLOMA...HOW WOULD YOU FEEL? 

DO YOU REMEMBER IN 1970 WHEN AS LONG AS YOU MADE AVERGAGE Grades, you got a diploma. WHAT A 

SHAME!! Special needs does not mean Stupid! It means different stengths, different dreams! 

147 I would like students in Fayette Schools to have same opportunity as other students. So lets do what is needed to bring 

our students inline with the others. 

148 Since the seven period day is the smallest change that could be made, it is the best because my child is unwilling to 

cooperate with the trimester sdchedule since she will end with an uncompleted credit. That is ridiculous that it is being 

consiedered. Also, please take into account that many children would like to have the same teacher all year and a twelve 

week gap between a class is not a good idea. The so called "studies" that kids retain information through a twelve week 

gap does not pertain to everyone. Trimester would be the worst decision to go with of the three, in my opinion. I prefer the 

seven period day. 

149 Human beings learn in different ways. I strongly agree with the longer instructional time for the teacher to instruct by 

demonstration and by lecture. 

Sep 3, 2011 6:37 PM 

Sep 3, 2011 6:10 PM 

Sep 3, 2011 5:57 PM 

Sep 3, 2011 5:55 PM 

150 Note that 7 Period Day Hybrid Schedule is very much like many European systems. Sep 3, 2011 12:43 PM 

151 Students do not need to take an additional classes! The advanced students would choose academic electives which 

would further increase the rediculous amount of homework they have now. How would they have the time to be able to 

participate in the extra-curricular activites that the colleges are looking for on the applications? The average and below 

average students struggle with 6 classes as is. Adding to their class load would likely increase the failure rates. The 3x5 

would be successful if stake-holders could view trimester courses as individual classes much like college. I certainly 

hope that the county will make the results of the survey public information and not manipulate the results to reflect the 

option they prefer. 

152 Our children and we see advantages of school hours being extended to 8:25am until 4pm. Even that extra time would be 

helpful. 

Sep 3, 2011 10:53 AM 

Sep 3, 2011 10:14 AM 

153 The 7-period day schedule will prepare and condition the high school students for college...and understand the college Sep 3, 2011 7:35 AM



schedule that they will experience during their college days. 

154 Both of my children had to drop band, something they enjoyed, to be able to experience either a foreign language, drama 

or advanced placement. High school may be the only time that some teens will be able to experience an area that 

interests them that may possibly take their future in a different and more rewarding direction. ALL teens regardless of 

academic success need to be able to have an elective of their choice. 

155 We've got some highly qualified, experienced teachers. While some amount of staff development may be indicated, we 

can trust them to rise to the occassion. The bottom line is what offers the best educational practice for our students! 

Inconvenience should not be a concern. 

156 As a graduate of McIntosh HS and now as a parent of a child in the Fayette County School system, I think it is incredibly 

important to keep our kids on track to be prepared for college. I didn't get what I needed for college and I have never 

been able to catch up on my college math. Every kid learns differently, but I know it would be really difficult for me to pay 

attention to a 70 minute class. I know it is irrelevant to this discussion, but I know when I was in school there was talk of 

a year round school year. Even as a kid I supported this idea because I forgot everything over the summer and each new 

school year was a new struggle. Good luck with this new plan. 

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Sep 3, 2011 12:04 AM 

Sep 2, 2011 8:28 PM 

Sep 2, 2011 8:07 PM 

157 Cannot remember which one above is the 4 day a week schedule. That is the one my family votes to adopt. Thank you Sep 2, 2011 4:07 PM 

158 Please continue to support the fine arts. So many studies have been done to support the ability of these programs to 

enhance student performance in all academic areas. The arts program is a strong advantage that Fayette county schools 

have in attracting higher-performing students. 

Sep 2, 2011 3:39 PM 

159 No information was supplied on a possible negative impact to sports programs by implementing a longer school day. Sep 2, 2011 2:46 PM 

160 Adding an additional period means more homework. My child is already overwhelmed with extracurricular activities and 

trying to keep up with school work. Extending the school day takes away from homework time and adding an extra 

period adds to the amount of homework. 

161 I would like for my son to compete effectively for college placement. Therefore I support a longer school day to add an 

additional period to earn extra credit hours and have enhanced educational experiences. 

162 I think it is important to give kids time for electives. I took typing even though I was on the college track. Thank God 

because I use computers every day of my life and I can type quickly and efficiently. I want my son to be able to take as 

many AP classes as possible. I earned college credit back in 1984 thanks to AP. 

163 I would recommend 3x5 Trimester Schedule so that students do not feel 7 subjects too heavy on them. Instead, they 

could have the 3 x 5 Trimester in order to gain more credits. Thank you. 

Sep 2, 2011 2:04 PM 

Sep 2, 2011 12:58 PM 

Sep 2, 2011 11:32 AM 

Sep 2, 2011 11:13 AM



164 Why was there no option to keep the school hours the same? Slanted survey and hard to answer without additional info. Sep 2, 2011 11:12 AM 

165 I believe the students have enough on their plate with the current schedule and I do not want to overwhelm my child with 

additional periods. 

166 Another option not presented in this discussion is to introduce AP classes as sophomores or freshman. Our students are 

at a disadvantage when compared to others when applying to college based on current practces. Many students take 

gifted classes which have difficult curriculum without a compensation in the grading scale for these more difficult studies. 

By introducing AP classes to sophomores such as an AP history or AP physics as a junior instead of gifted History as a 

sophomore or honors Physics as a Junior will enable students to compete with other states and schools in the amount of 

AP classes they are able to take and will improve our counties standings when applying to colleges. 

167 I have three children in Fayette County schools, Brooks Elementery & W.M.S. one will be going to W.H.S. next year. I 

believe the schedule should stay the same. The changes that need to be made should not be from education or the fine 

arts or team sports. There should be a way of cutting back (example: The School Board) the monies they earn could be 

decreased or a lay off of some jobs that are not so impacting on so many lives. The United States is in terrible economic 

times but there has to be a better way. Jamie Blalock 

168 what we have works, don't change something for the few that struggle and penalize others that are working hard and 

doing fine and need a part time job after school. Close every college of education in the country so we no longer have 

these foolish ideas!. 

169 I that by increasing the day would not harm a student but rather allow him/her an opportunity to take something that they 

want to choose. I think school is about being well rounded as a person, it is not completely academic. Colleges want to 

see well rounded students, we have been through that process once already with our son and if a student does not show 

that they are well rounded, it drops them down a notch in the application process. I believe that students need to have 

both academics, fine arts and PE along with foreign language. I don't think it would benefit my child to have a 3x5 

schedule and totally believe it would hinder her college process. She is only in 9th grade and I don't want anything like a 

schedule to hinder her from going to the college of her choice. 

170 If colleges require a foreign language, why isn't it mandatory? Even if a child isn't going directly to college after HS, they 

want to in the future. 

171 My Child is currently in Middle school and has an IEP. I think that the 7 class schedule that he is currently on works great 

and would prefer to continue with what we have adjusted to. This 7 class schedule will also benefit difficult learners such 

as my son. 

172 More consideration needs to made for student that work hard but are in extra help classes instead of being able to have 

at least one class of activity that requires no sitting at a desk. These schools seem to only recognize the importance of 

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children that exceed and forget the children that do struggle still need a break AT school. 

173 My key criteria are to keep the schools as competitive as possible against other schools in the nation, keep classroom 

time to 75 minutes or less (90 minutes would be too long, and 60 is very tight for labs, etc), keep the schedule the same 

every day. 

174 currently have a freshman. Daughter graduated in 2010. She took online econ and political science so that she could take 

an extra science. There were other academic and career electives she would have loved to have taken if she could have 

fit it into her schedule. High schoolers need to be able to fit in more classes whether for remedial purposes, to take more 

AP classes, or to explore other career-related electives. 

175 None of the above options appear to be acceptable answers to the many problems that the school system is having right 

now. We are unable to create a budget with out a short fall, but we are looking at adding the amount of hours teachers 

will teach. This should mean raises for the teachers and if it does not then they are not being acceptably compensated. 

Trimesters for children with learning disabilities sets them up to fail. Information is presented too fast. Students can only 

be expected to focus for so long. Extending the school day sets the children up for not learning as well. The reality is 

that a child who struggles with classes needs to focus on academics and to not acknowledge that does them a disservice. 

For children who are focused on college, that should be their focus and we should not be adjusting things to include 

classes that do not satisfy their needs to enter college. An acceptable way to handle adding in more fine arts to the day 

would be to have "clubs" such as glee club to allow the students to participate after school. If students want to participate 

there could be a fee for joining, which would help to defray the costs of having teachers present beyond the school day. 

Many kids choose to participate in theater by utilizing community play houses, which extends their social network and 

helps them to build self esteem in regard to networking with people outside of their normal school day. These types of 

options should be considered, since the three options above set several subsets of students up for failure. 

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Sep 1, 2011 11:11 PM 

Sep 1, 2011 10:52 PM 

Sep 1, 2011 5:23 PM 

176 I think the old model of starting on Memorial day and ending school at the end of May was best and should be reinstated. Sep 1, 2011 5:11 PM 

177 70 minutes in a classroom is too much time! as an adult, I lose interest and motivation after about 50 minutes. The five 

period day will end up being less productive because of this. The hybrid schedule is way too confusing for students. 

With three different class order days and two different class time lengths, it will be confusing from day to day. In the 

hybrid example, english follows biology on Monday, Tuesday, and Friday. But on Wednesday, It follows health. This will 

be very confusing trying to remember where to go next in your schedule. Thus, the seven period day will be best for 

students. 

178 If I am reading this correctly, by choosing the 7-day hybrid schedule, this would allow more class time, especially for core 

subjects and would also allow all children to have the chance for electives...plus for struggling students, this option would 

allow for credit recovery and the most balance in the school day. If I am correct, this is my choice. 

Sep 1, 2011 4:17 PM 

Sep 1, 2011 3:47 PM 

179 Will there be a work program offered where students will be able to leave early to go to work and still receive vocational Sep 1, 2011 2:57 PM



credit with a corresponding course? 

180 I think it's very important to avoid stretching the length of school days to much more than 15-20 minutes added on. Some 

students need to work for an income. Others are heavily involved in extracurricular activities that could result in 

scholarships upon graduation. Lengthening the school day could in some cases jeapordize those students. 

181 Do not increase length of the school day and please consider shortening the length of day back to original time schedule 

by removing IFP 

182 hybrid schedules are not a good idea for some children who function better with a routine. Kids with anxiety, Aspergers 

etc would do better with the same schedule daily. 

183 My children are in MS. They were emphatic that a longer class is rarely needed, would most likely not be utilized well, and 

that they are ready to change classes after 50 minutes. Personally, I would like a 4 day week and/or a longer summer 

break with less time given for Christmas. 

184 Young adults should be afforded the opportunity to choose elective classes after meeting core requirements. Our 

students should also be required to complete credit hours to compete with other schools for college recognition in 

addition to picking up extra credit hours if they choose. A 3x5 trimester schedule will transition them from middle school 

to a typical college schedule better than the two 7-period day schedules. This is an amazing option and opportunity for 

our children. 

185 need study hall for those students that cannot handle another course or if the student is taking very demanding course if 

the school goes to 7 period day 

186 My child transferred from East Coweta to McIntosh this year, and EC has 4 classes per day... longer class times & higher 

credit offered per class due to the longer class time. I attended Fayette Co schools all my life, so this was somewhere 

weird to me; however, having a child used to 4 longer classes now going to 6 shorter classes, the longer periods were 

much more successful (grade wise). She is now struggling to keep 6 grades opposed to 4 -- please don't allow 7 periods! 

The trimester would be IDEAL - 30 credits would be a wonderufl oppurtunity is all students!! If a student fails a class, 

there would be much less pressure on the parent to take child to summer school, etc. Plus, 4 years foreign language 

would be wonderful, considering I am very thankful I took just the 2 years Spanish in highschool that I did - because this 

country is changing FAST and jobs are getting more and more limited! Speaking a foreign language would be a very BIG 

asset is the job market!! Please consider my plea! Thank you!! 

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Sep 1, 2011 2:00 PM 

Sep 1, 2011 1:57 PM 

Sep 1, 2011 1:21 PM 

Sep 1, 2011 1:17 PM 

Sep 1, 2011 1:05 PM 

Sep 1, 2011 12:53 PM 

Sep 1, 2011 11:16 AM 

187 With the BoE short $10M where will the extra money come from Sep 1, 2011 11:12 AM 

188 7 Day give the consistency of repeat subjects, but the flexibility to go into more depth in a class when it has a longer 

period on some days. 

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189 1. I would suggest Dr. Bearden & the Board focus on QUALITY vs. quantity. The claim other School Systems flaunt they 

provide 30 credits with foreign language for at least 2 years really means nothing if our High School students are not truly 

learning the basic core courses. FCBOE needs to focus on "1st Things First". Get the basics right...remove anything that 

distracts from that focus. I recognize this "High School Day" revision process started before Dr. Bearden assumed the 

position of School Superintendent. However, he should have a significant say in the final decision. 2. It is disingenuous 

to say that there is no additional cost to implement the "3x5 Trimester" schedule. You state that teachers will need to be 

retrained in their teaching techniques. This will take time (which is money) and resources (which cost money) to make 

happen. So your objective internal assessment of the Advantages v. Disadvantages for each option is suspect to me. 3. 

Finally, help me understand why the "Committee" did not consist of any parents. Would it also have benefitted the 

process to have the "paying customers" (property tax paying parents) included in the development, evaluation and 

presentation of these options? This Survey does not qualify as Parental Input...it is a barometer, not a conduit to forge 

the program. 

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190 No year round school!!!!!! Sep 1, 2011 8:42 AM 

191 I do not agree with extending the school day. This year's extension was more than enough!! Sep 1, 2011 8:39 AM 

192 I feel that a trimester or hybrid schedule changes would be even more detrimental to students who are already struggling. Aug 31, 2011 10:11 PM 

193 i prefer a year round school schedule with a 6 week break from Thanksgiving to New years and a 6 week break for the 

summer 

194 #7 - Despite having a ~3.6 GPA and wanting to take AP courses, my child's application to take AP courses as a junior 

was denied. I hope the schedule change will allow more smart students to take AP courses if they want to do so. #9 - 

12 My child takes visual arts and would like to take it and a foreign language all four years. #17 From what I have heard 

from my kid and other parents and students, the instructional focus period has not worked well in practice, largely 

because students found it difficult to meet with some teachers because they needed to arrange in advance to meet with 

them. 

195 It is a well documented fact that most children learn better in a consistent environment. If a child wishes to take an 

additional elective, Zero period is already offered. If a child needs to take credit recovery, they can do so already on line 

or after school. AP classes for the most part are a waste of time and can be detrimental to their Hope GPA because 

Hope deducts points when considering grades due to weighted averages in AP Classes. Also, most colleges will not give 

credit for AP classes unless a student scores a 5 in the final AP test. Hope gives no consideration for the fact that AP 

students take much harder courses, so I do not consider AP 

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196 Students need some classes that they can enjoy rather than 5 hours of academics with one interest class. Aug 31, 2011 9:37 PM 

197 I believe continuity with a class schedule and teacher is very important. The 3 x 5 schedule will cause gaps in student's Aug 31, 2011 9:31 PM



schedules for the year. the hybrid just seems to scattered and confusing. It believe the best option is the 7 period 

schedule. 

198 The 3x5 seems most favorable to most students, they like having the options. And for the ones that do not like their 

current teachers it gives them a chance to change them. But aside from that it seems the most convenient for every child 

who is struggling or taking AP classes because they get more time to understand the concepts. 

199 Have you read the avg. entrance profiles for GaTech and UGA? Wake up! Its a different era! Fun classes like art, chorus, 

drama are a thing of the past. These kids are running with the big dogs to compete and get jobs! Time to toughen up! 

200 The same opportunities are available to ALL students. My child shouldn't be punished by a longer school day, etc. So that 

a child that doesn't work as hard or care as much can have the opportunity to take a fun class or make up credits in 

school. If they failed a class it was their fault, you can be tutored by peers or come in before/after school to seek extra 

help. Doing these things only makes students LESS responsible for their own actions to help themselves succeed. 

201 Why would MHS staff be concerned about whether a lower performing student gets to take a "fun" elective. These 

students should be pushed to the limit to improve their GPA and grades. Forget the electives and get them into 

academics!!!! 

202 I want my child to be competitive when it comes time to choosing a college and the trimester selection will give her that 

opportunity. I like the idea of longer class times so she can get additional feedback and guidance from the teacher if she 

needs clarification on a topic. 

203 Honestly, I don't like any of these options. It is very difficult for a child who has attention issues and is not on medication 

like the rest of the world to keep focused for 70 minutes of instructional time! When they are older and in college, they 

are better at handling those lengthy class times because they have matured and learned what works for them. In regard 

to the 7 period day, less time in class and more courses is not the answer, either. That means more homework for the 

kids. When you have a child who has to work hard to get good grades, they spend more time at home working on their 

work. Add more classes, now they are staying up later or having to give up a sport or music lesson or scouts because 

they can't fit it all in. And what about family time? Our society is already falling apart because of the breakdown of the 

family unit. It's getting harder and harder to have time to sit down together as a family for dinner--give the kids more 

classes, they will have more homework and that valuable time with the family will erode away to nothing. I think you 

should keep things the way they are with regard to the number of classes offered and shorten the high school day back to 

what it was last year. This extra 20 minute thing is NOT going to help the kids you are targeting. It's detrimental to all the 

students, in my opinion. Thank you for the opportunity to express our opinions and we appreciate you having our 

children's best interests in mind. 

204 All of the options do not meet the needs of my child. The schools need to offer more AP classes, different electives, and 

open up more foreign language classes. They also need to get rid of problem teachers instead of just shift them around 

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in the system. 

205 I like the idea of the Trimester Schedule. I just think the time in class may be too long for the students unless there was 

some sort of lab / simulation that would keep their attention. Let's face it, we are in the technology age and many of our 

students like interaction while learning. The possibility that my student may not have the same teacher has its pros and 

cons - my student usually likes their teachers or has good rapport with them. I do agree something does need to be done 

with the current way to earn credits for school. Way to go Fayette County. 

206 I went to school/college on the Quarter system which seems to be the same thing as a "Trimester" system. I always liked 

3x10 week quarters/yr and never saw the need or advantave to move to 2x16 week semesters. 

207 Was the 4 class block schedule considered and rejected? My child was on this schedule for 9th grade in Catoosa County 

and older child also in 12th grade in Cherokee County. This can allow up to 8 credits per year. 

208 My daughter is in the Healthcare Tech program at Whitewater which she loves. Unfortunately it will take 2 class periods 

next year and prevent her from taking additional year in a Foreign Language or additional AP courses. Our high schools 

are behind compared to others in terms of AP courses available. Students must be able to take a number and variety of 

courses outside of the core areas of Mathematics, English, Science and Social Studies. Many universities require a year 

of fine arts to apply. 

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209 My daughter is in sports and this would continue without interruption. Aug 31, 2011 2:09 PM 

210 Close two elementary schools and one middle school AND RE-DISTRICT! Then make all Board Members work on a 

volunteer/ unpaid basis (it is, or should be, an honor to serve). 

211 I think this will allow students tha ability to take other classes that they may not have initially tried and give them a broader 

look at other activities. Also, there may be conflicts between student/teacher and a shorter semester would help that 

issue. My child had a teacher they struggled with the first semester last year failing it and then switched teachers the 2nd 

semester and passed the class with a B. I grew up doing a 3x5 Trimester schedule in New York who also follows the 

Regents Program and I think it is an excellent option. I think semester are far too long and students can begin to lose 

interest. 

212 start school after Labor Day and end at Memorial Day and cut out all the week long breaks throughout the school year. It 

will save energy, jobs and give the students a chance to have time away from academic studies to pursue other extracurricular 

activites that are important to having a well rounded student. 

213 My children are in elementary school, however the 3 x 5 trimester schedule will allow more credits to be earned and more 

instructional time 

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214 no year round schooling. Please. It failed in California. Aug 31, 2011 1:03 PM 

215 The 3x5 is the most flexible and will give the students an experience closer to college. If the right teachers are in place, 

students will embrace the idea of focusing on one subject with a them for 70 minutes. The pros of going to this layout 

simply outweigh all the other options. 

216 Intro to physics, chemistry also must be started as an option at 9th grade if needed by reducing the hrs for band, music, 

and languages. I think the board must conduct a in depth study of other educationally (science & math) advanced 

countries and examine the aspects that could be introduced in our school system. 

217 a schedule that allows kids who are in band and wil take a language the opportunity to also have another elective like 

drama 

218 High school students should end their day by 220pm. The day is entirely too long. My student feedback indicates that 

there is a lot of down time doing nothing in class. Complete and utter boredom. While I don't think that teachers, of 

course, are there to entertain, they need to lecture, engage their students - and stimulate their interest in the subject 

matter; to inspire. 

219 Listen, quit screwing things that have worked up. Go back to beginning school after Labor Day and ending the 1st week 

of June and we wouldn't have 3 deaths due to football in the state of GA. Quit doing useless stuff just to do stuff. Waste of 

money and time. Reward those students who work hard and allow them to succeed and FAIL those students who don't 

work hard. Quit putting our kids through the "spread the wealth" mentality!!!! 

220 When I was in high school, I attended a school that was on a trimester system and I had honors/AP classes. The longer 

class times gave me greater learning time to soak in the information. I love this option specifically for this reason. Thank 

you all for allowing the parents feedback about our children's school day. 

221 Less classes, more time per class should increase the learning and attention of the students. the only mayor problem is 

band, choir schedule to keep practice continusly year around. 

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222 None of these schedules are acceptable. Aug 31, 2011 9:36 AM 

223 Shorter periods leave little time for good instruction. After students settle, papers handed in or out, and students pack up, 

there is not enough time to really teach the lessons. Longer periods fix that. Though the courses may be more 

challenging due to shorter semesters, there are less classes to juggle. More like college. 

Aug 31, 2011 9:16 AM 

224 Please consider adding any extra time to the beginning of the school day. Aug 31, 2011 8:57 AM 

225 I moved here from another state that had a very good educational record; they used the 7 period day. Fayette has a great Aug 31, 2011 8:53 AM



reputation for schooling, so it would be nice to keep that. 

226 1. The High School Day committee should include some parents. 2. School should run 0800-1500 every day and should 

begin the Tuesday after Labor Day and end the Friday before Memorial Day. This would reduce utilities & facilities costs 

as well as staff (teachers, bus drivers, maintenance folks, etc.). 3. Mental retention is better with shorter classes (50 

minutes). Students lose attention span with longer classes. 4. Reduce salaries of higher paid staff (BOE Office). 5. Sell 

schools that are not being utilized for education. 6. Sell additional properties purchased but not utilized. 7. Stop bussing 

students who live within a half-mile of their school unless the bus has to pass their way carrying those who may live more 

than half mile. They can walk, bicycle or golf cart (in Peachtree City) to school. 

227 70 plus minutes in one class makes it very difficult for any human to sit and pay attention that long. This would be a huge 

stumble block with many students. 

228 The 7th period schedule is something middle school is used to and it will not be as much of a burden on the teachers. I 

appreciate the opportunity to provide feedback. 

229 I think additional time to explore electives would make our students better prepared for knowing what they want to major 

in when they attend college. As the students are scheduled now, they have no time in their schedule for AP classes as 

well as career exploration. We are creating book knowledge students without allowing them to find themselves at this 

young age. 

230 my biggest concern is that we dont get caught up trying to let everyone have the same education when everyone is 

differant there are kids who wll excell and I dont want to see things dumbed down. I have learning disabilities and for me 

that means working twice as hard. I do did it. I would hate to see our scores go down because we move our focus to just 

passing everyone and not making sure that the education they have the oppertunity to get is the best avalible if a kid cant 

do the basics they really dont need to have extras. focus on the fundamentals and after that comes the rest. 

231 We need to meet needs of all, not just academic. Most of our kids are being left behind. One can be gifted in many area 

s, not just in academics. 

232 no time for choral and art..why should this opportunity be taken? However, I would recommend for students to duo enroll 

in college, rather than take ap classes! I feel this is the future! Why expand a high school, when we should teach our 

students to enroll in college, get credits on line or summer school. If a student goes to college with 18 credits, that says a 

lot!! 

233 It seems that Fayette students have always fared very well both in palcement and more importantly in completion of 

college. This seems to be more of a "fix what is not broken" approach. The class work is already pretty weak, in terms of 

general knowledge and consistancy. It might be better to have the day extended, but keep 6 periods giving the students 

and teachers more time. An additional class helps little in my view, but has the potential to further seprate the students 

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that do well from those that struggle. I like the longer summer though :-) 

234 I do not believe we need to change the way the schedule is at all. The 6 period schedule was fine the way it was. Now the 

extra 20 minutes is pushing it a little bit but we dont need fewer or extra classes. 

235 DONT CHANGE THE SCHEDULE. There is no reason to. It worked fine with 6 periods a day for the past years. 

Instructional focus is going to be a complete waste of time. 20 minutes at the end of the day is a lot for a useless class. 

Students just want to do their after-school activities at that time. Who NEEDS 20 minutes at the end of the day that bad? 

What about freshman and sophomore STRAIGHT A students? They have to sit in a class and be 'instructed' about things 

that they already know? These schedules are crazy. Leave it as it is and don't waste your time. 

236 Having more classes in a day is not going to help the students who are currently struggling with the current 6 class 

schedule. Adding another class, then adding more time to the school day will give the students more homework and then 

less time in which to complete it. In addition, students in extracurriculars like band and/or sports are going to find 

themselves with an even bigger problem with study time. Of the options presented, the 3 X 5 trimester schedule is the 

best for everyone involved, on both ends of the spectrum (gifted/AP and those needing remediation or credit recovery 

options). 

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237 why not do the block system like coweta county. I think the hybrid is THE WORST. Aug 30, 2011 9:08 PM 

238 A change in the school schedule primarily based on the needs of students who do not successfully master course work 

and need to re-earn credits or students who struggle with a subject is unfair to students who are not struggling. 

Successful students should not be expected to stay in school longer or take additional course so others can take 

electives. Students who struggle need the opportunity to take course during summer breaks so they do not have a 12 

week gap. Successful students often have many other extra-curricular activities and longer school days or additional 

courses would put added stress on these students. 

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239 My children are homeschooled but I feel that the 3X5 would give the best opportunities for students. Aug 30, 2011 8:15 PM 

240 Please do not surrender our academic standards to those who claim "diversity is our strength". This particular kind of 

"diversity" has driven our productivity out of the USA and turned Marica's public schools into incubators of ignorance and 

hip-hop buffoonery. 

241 I would like for the school day to go back to the 6 period schedule. My child felt that was the best schedule. She is also in 

a sport, so getting out of school 20 minutes later than before takes a toll on her to get ready for practice and or games. 

Also, I know kids cannot be overbooked with work. I work, and I know that working for a certain amount of hours is tiring. 

Students work at school, and the school day is long for them. 8:40am to 3:20pm was suitable schedule for the school 

day. The presentation said that that schedule was used for years, and I believe it has worked just fine for all those years 

and would still work well if the Board of Education would go back to the 6 period day. To whomever it may concern, thank 

Aug 30, 2011 7:59 PM 

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you for reading my survey. 

242 I believe the 7 period day would be best. The student is able be in the same class everyday and receive 28 credits at the 

of 4 years. Also take a look at Mesa Public School System in Arizona they have a great system!!! 

243 Collaborative planning is important for effective delivery of the GPS. Teacher knowledge of the learner is also important. 

Students need "think" time to absorb the curriculum. I am in favor of the 3x5 trimester but concerns for losing 

collaborative planning and losing the "leaner" due to change in teacher is too great of a risk. Therefore the compromise is 

the hybrid choice. The 7 class traditional schedule is too stressful for any learner. It is too much for middle school 

students too. Lets move to a 6 period day for middle school or a hybrid concept. Thanks for the opportunity to give input. 

244 Unless we go to a 4 day week school schedule, I do not want to lengthen the day. Our kids are in extra-curricular 

activities for the school. There is NO extra time for homework now. 

245 Our Child is at a disadvantage in taking AP courses due to the time constraint. Also, She already speaks a language, 

wanted to take 2 different ones, and cannot due to scheduling. Had to quit band to take AP classes or any in her chosen 

field. Great initiative. Hope we can get the trimester program in time for her! 

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246 Need to remain at five days per week to avoid too much time idle time for our youth. Aug 30, 2011 6:43 PM 

247 7 classes a day is too much for all kids. The 5 day schedule or the system most call "block" schedules has worked 

well.The only concern is who and how do you transitions. Example the seniors for the year implemented what is the 

benefit for those successful on their mapped path. 

248 my child is not yet in HS. I took the survey to give feedback as to what direction I would like to see the educational system 

go. I lean more towards the 3 x 5 schedule simply because it allows more of a "college" schedule which is what we are in 

fact "preparing" them for. Perhaps consider the 3 x 5 for 10-12th grade and keeping 7 period for 9th graders as they 

transition to a higher level of learning. "Gaps" should not be an issue at this age, I feel, and are really not a talking point 

for a "disadvantage" of the trimester schedule in my opinion. Thank you for allowing our input in this very important 

decision for our children. 

249 The HS day is already long enough, they don't need a whole other period added to the day, unless the Transportation 

Dept can do a better job of getting them to/from school in a timely manner. As it stands now, including bus times my high 

schooler is gone 8 hours a day, including nearly 2 hours in transport time, and we live 2 miles from the school. If you add 

time to their existing day, you have to do something about the transportation times. 

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250 Need to offer the most amount of opportunity for credits to compete with other schools in college admissions. Aug 30, 2011 5:55 PM 

251 The 3x5 model gives the student the most opportunities to gain the maximum credits without increasing the length of Aug 30, 2011 5:48 PM



school day. In addition he would only have to take 5 classes instead of 6 or 7. 

252 We need to meet the credit requirement. Having a consistent day schedule I believe is important, shorter and longer 

clasess seems to me would be confusing for students. A seven perios day is not an excessive amount of time. 

253 i don't feel it is in the best interest of the kids to add another class to study for . I would much rather my child have 5 

classes to focus on that spreading that focus over 7. 

254 This survery seems to only address the students interested in band, orchestra, or chorus. I simply can't believe that we 

are considering such serious changes to accommodate only that group of students. 

255 None of the options is either necessary or acceptable. Keep the schedule the same. Our children have mounds of 

summer work for gifted and AP classes. Wouldn't it make more sense for remedial students to have the same??? Adding 

time to the day would mean our kids would be forced out of piano and ballet to do homework because we also enjoy 

dinner together and go to bed at a reasonable time. I see this as another reward for slacking and punishment for those 

who do what is expected. Our kids would have to take a PE class because they already have plenty of homework and 

studying. Why isn't there an option here for no change??? Please don't continue jumping into the fire without thinking. 

We will have to consider pulling our kids out to focus on academics. It is time for some personal responsibility and to 

learn you don't get everything you want. Cutting electives would be more effective in producing educated students. 

Electives are extras. 

256 My daughter has a 3.5 gpa and barely keeps up with all the homework, adding a seventh class would be a back breaker, 

and probably keep her out of the few after school activities she's in. The hybrid schedule could be good for labs, art 

classes--but from what i saw, you haven't addressed how much extra homework anyone would have under the 7 period 

schedule vs. the current 6 period schedule. Third, you need an evaluation process to assess what ever option you pick 

and how its working. Need to know what "success" looks like up front, before you embark on any change or you won't 

know when or if you get there--which would be a very sad reflection on the district's planning. 

257 Why do we have to change everyone's' schedule to accomodate a fe. There are already options in place with other 

institutions and online courses as well as zero period if necessary. If a child does not apply himself in a particular subject 

and fails they need to find options for credit recovery not change the entire system. 

258 3x5 closest simulates a typical college set-up and better prepares students to adjust after high school. It also provides 

the greatest opportunities for coursework for both advanced and struggling students without giving up instructional time to 

"change" classes more frequently. 

259 I would like to know if any of these changes will affect graduation. I have a daughter who graduates in 2013 and one 

2015. I really don't want my daughter's credits to be hindered in any way that would make them ineligiable to graduate on 

time. It happened to me going from quaters to sememter transferring to a new county and going back to quaters...I wasn't 

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allowed to graduate on time. I'm 42 and it stills bothers me to this day. I truly hope this won't affect anyone's graduation 

credits. 

260 Lengthen the school day for H.S. and go to more of a year round schedule. Aug 30, 2011 1:05 PM 

261 Less classes with longer periods to concentrate would be more conducive to learning the subject in depth. Most students 

would struggle with seven subjects for short periods of time. There would be very little time to truly understand the 

information and learn the subjects. 

262 My son is a freshman. After the first week of school he tol me he really liked having just 6 periods. I worry that an 

additional period would greatly increase the homework load. 

263 My daughter was previously in high school for 2 years with a block schedule. She is very well rounded and has an 

excellent transcript/record, including AP courses. From a student and parent perspective we feel the block scheduling, 5 

courses per day, is much more efficient ... giving more time in each class for instruction and much better organization of 

classwork and homework AS WELL AS better time for extracurricular activities. 

264 NO to trimester... esp academically.. not having same teacher for math/english is problem, and break for esp. math is not 

good Also my kids all take AP... what about time for them to get work done in school??? If they have about 30min at 

least homework in each academic, then have longer school day and try to continue to work job, when do they possibly 

have time to get all the homework done, or JUST BE A KID... they have to have time to recover/relax/play... lengthening 

the class time is good if you have a good teacher, but a waste of time if the teacher is not good. We have had plenty of 

teachers that show movies for a whole class period... with no teaching involved... the hybrid would be ok if you can 

assure me my students will NOT be wasting their time w/ teacher who is not teaching or letting them get reading/work 

done in class period so they actually have time to live outside of school. Even in college they do not have 7 classes a 

day, although the homework load is heavier, they actually have time to do it because they are not in class from 8:25-3:40 

every day of the week. The new math cirriculum is awful. It moves way too fast and the kids are not comprehending it and 

retaining it... I had one in old math, he is doing fine in college, now have 2 in new math and oldest is struggling to retain 

what he has had past 2 years. The trimester schedule would destroy retention for him. As far as electives, my students 

are now wondering what in the world they will take to fill up another period.. they do not want to take something to just 

waste time. Maybe you should consider an AP study hall elective so those students (who are mostly self motivated or 

they wouldn't be in the class) can get work done in school and not have 3 or more hours of homework every night. Add to 

all this that to get into college, not only are academics important, but well-roundedness. In order to serve on organizations 

like student council, beta club, spanish honor society, ambassadors, executive board, pals, etc... you have to have TIME.. 

Each organization requires service hours/ work hours/ etc. When do these kids possibly have the time? School all day, 

then athletics or work or practice for band/choir/etc.. and what about family dinner??? Please give them time to be kids in 

the midst of all the requirements. 

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265 The 3x 5 Trimester schedule is an absolute no in the opinions of most of the people I have spoken with, it would create Aug 30, 2011 12:40 PM



too much change and gap time for the students. The hybrid, while it looks good in theory would take an greater amount 

of organization and cause undo confusion on the students in my opinion. 

266 In the previous school my older children attended there was a 7 period schedule but a study hall was offered every period 

for students who could not handle 7 academic periods and needed time during the day to do homework 

267 A schedule with 7 periods is too much work load for a student in terms of homework an final exam preparation. Most 

college students don't take more than 5 classes in a semester. I have two students who graduated from SMHS and had 

ample opportunity to participate in AP courses and were accepted into Georgia Tech - we didn't see any credit issues. 

268 Seems like the optional 0 period already accomodates the need for additional classes. I'm not sure why you are 

changing everything so a few kids can take some electives. 

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269 Thank you for my voice!! Aug 30, 2011 11:35 AM 

270 I would have liked to see a block schedule on the survey. 7 core/elective classes and the required PE. Four periods a 

day, for a large block of time, rotating all year long or 2 days of 4 periods each (total 8 classes in 4 days) and Friday being 

a full 7 period day-would allow for testing, reviews, etc. I think we can do without one day of PE. Another option for 

students-those that participate in sports-at the High School level and rec level, could be able to opt out of PE for that 

semester-would allow another elective or course. 

271 Please do not add a 7th class period just to allow for credit recovery. My daughter is already overloaded with work from 6 

classes (more than a typical college schedule) and she would be overwhelmed with 7 classes. 

272 I believe the 7 Period Day Schedule is optimal and crucial for the learning ability of students, to meet all graduation 

requirements, and give the opportunity to the students to take classes they enjoy and can excel at. 

273 Why is there not an option for keeping the school day/schedule as it is? This useless IF time that is being used to allow 

football players to watch tapes is a waste of everyone's time. Seriously, why should my children have to go a longer day 

and make it nearly impossible to schedule orthodontist appointments so football players can watch their films? There is 

too much wasted time already. Making more electives available will cause more kids to struggle academically and make 

it harder on the kids taking AP and other courses seriously. Students who need credit recovery SHOULD have to make 

choices and limit electives and if needed, take it during the summer or zero period. The rest of us are doing our part 

already. This will result in a backlash of declining enrollment as parents of serious students seek alternatives for their 

children. The same thing will result from bringing in additional out of county students. It is time for more rational thought 

and less knee jerk reaction. Teachers have complained that while they requested 18 students for their remediation class, 

they have 28 students in the IF time, ten whom do not need remediation. Who is this helping? It is not helping my family. 

Close some schools and redistrict. Forget about four day weeks. When you redistrict, don't forget to send ALL special 

permission students back to their assigned schools first. Remember that the capacity at WHS should be without the 

Aug 30, 2011 11:33 AM 

Aug 30, 2011 11:05 AM 

Aug 30, 2011 9:55 AM 

Aug 30, 2011 8:37 AM



trailers. 

274 This past year, my son could not take an AP class because he was not willing to drop band or Spanish. Needless to say, 

I feel both of these subjects enhance his learning. Kids shouldn't have to choose between these classes all of which will 

help them in college! 

275 My high school used the semester system and when I went off to college I went to the trimester system. I was an B+ 

average student in HS and school but needed remedial writing in college. By using the trimester system I was able to 

catch up quickly and graduate with my class. The trimester system learning was easy to adapt to and learning was 

easier. Classes were longer so concepts could be covered in more detail. Also, the course schedule supported fewer 

classes to enable students to concentrate on fewer core courses and the flexibility of electives to make learning 

enjoyable. Changing up core courses three times a year provided new experiences once a quarter with an option to 

continue a full course load and even a May-mester over the summer if necessary. I strongly recommend the trimester 

system. You won't be disappointed. 

276 I'm personally not interested in changing the school schedule at all. Have 2 children that are currently in college and 

were able to take AP classes with current schedule. I don't feel we should make a change to satisfy a small number of 

the students. 

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Aug 30, 2011 8:29 AM 

Aug 30, 2011 7:48 AM 

Aug 30, 2011 6:36 AM 

277 Kids should stay with one teacher and one class for no longer than 55mins a day! Aug 29, 2011 11:36 PM 

278 The school day should be extended especially for extra help for students to complete work at school and reduce 

homework after school. 

Aug 29, 2011 10:10 PM 

279 Do not change the schedule. It is perfect the way it is. Seriously. 8:40-3:40 is looooooong enough. Aug 29, 2011 8:48 PM 

280 If the 3x5 Trimester Schedule is chosen, there should be no homework assigned over Christmas holidays. My first choice 

is to keep the current schedule. 

281 I really like the idea of 3X5 Trimester Schedule because it promotes variety which will in turn prevent most students from 

getting "burned out" or bored and may very well encourage an invigorating learning environment. I also like the idea 

because many times when teachers and students have personality conflicts a shorter period of time with each other can 

be beneficial to all parties involved. For students who are not sure about the career path they may be interested in, more 

class variety in high school may help the student make a decision before entering college, therefore, it also becomes a 

money saving benefit for the student/parent. 

282 6 period are enough for the majority of students. Taking a Zero Period or 7th Period on a voluntary basis would be the 

best option!! 

Aug 29, 2011 7:07 PM 

Aug 29, 2011 6:56 PM 

Aug 29, 2011 6:55 PM



283 In order to implement a different schedule, it is important to properly train teachers to really teach for longer class periods 

and to make sure that there is a variety of elective options available for students, including vocational/technical classes at 

all high schools. 

284 Shame on you - Question 18 is biased - where's the option of status quo?? Do you just want people to vote for one of the 

3 new options so you can say, option X was the most popular so we adopted it?? Is this more of Mr. Beardon's messing 

with something that's going good? More bad decisions on the part of FCBOE due to his poor recommendations? The 

best solution is to leave things alone (6 period day). Students who want more electives can take them online. The 

advantages/disadvantages presented ("could" do this and "may" do that") reveal that you don't even know what your 

options will do. Advantages seem to be slanted to what work it will cause the teachers. Instead our focus should be on 

WHAT'S GOOD FOR THE STUDENTS!!!! The key here is to do whatever it takes to avoid even POTENTIALLY 

"overwhelming" students. Didn't we just add 20 min to the school day to add a help/study period?? Now we're going to 

do away with that and instead trying to pile on more work?? We've got the best school system in the state and you want 

to ruin it. More Bearden influence??? If any of these options pass, FCBOE members should be prepared to be voted off 

the island. 

285 Students who struggle often end up taking academic focused classes as their electives, such as math support, and do not 

have as many opportunities to take a class of their choice. While grades are important, students need to have at least 

one class that is not academic focused and is one that they get to choose. 

286 I realize that one of the issues with the 7 period day is the fact that some teachers will have to teach more classes as well 

as other teacher concerns. This schedule change is not for the teachers. We need to remember when making this choice 

that we should pick the best choice for the STUDENTS. 

287 I feel that students are not given a sufficient enough time between classes nor during lunch breaks. I personally felt that 

the school day was long enough last year however, I do feel that the option of staying at school during an extra study hall 

would be helpful for all students and not just atheletes. 

288 The Board should consider pushing the start time of the school year back to the last week of August or first week of 

September, and operate on the 3x5 schedule. We start too early! I think the 3x5 program would benefit students and 

teachers alike without extending the school day. 

289 My concern with longer days/more periods is in regards to homework. My child has a close friend from Northgate HS, 

who only has to balance/perform homework for 4 classes in a semester, while my child juggles 6 difficult academic 

classes, all with intensive homework assignments daily. I'm not sure this is to her advantage as she shops for colleges, 

because she is competing against students from other less-challenging districts, where an A is much easier to obtain than 

here at McIntosh. 

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Aug 29, 2011 5:51 PM 

Aug 29, 2011 5:32 PM 

Aug 29, 2011 5:17 PM 

Aug 29, 2011 4:55 PM 

Aug 29, 2011 4:35 PM 

Aug 29, 2011 4:17 PM 

Aug 29, 2011 3:56 PM 

290 I think the core classes such as math, reading, science, social studiest with the incorporation of written material is Aug 29, 2011 3:36 PM



important for all students no matter the semester/school year/ etc. whether they be advanced placement or other. 

Electives should be focused on items those students who are seeking college prep classes wish to take such as foreign 

language etc. I understand that there are students that need help to complete all of their studies - but seriously, we 

receive information about "0" EVERY week, as a parent you need to work with your child to make graduation happen. 

Changing the schedule to account for failure does not do that - you are just providing a safety net for those who are failing 

and altering the statistics for children who do not graduate. Changing the way things are counted to not change what the 

impact of what is being counted. What happened to summer school? Parents need to suppor their child's success in 

school - schools should not make it easier to suceed in school. 

291 Lengthen the school day. It now starts too late and lets out too early. Starting at 8am would seem a slam-dunk. Aug 29, 2011 3:32 PM 

292 No matter the education level classes over 50 mins lose students focus Aug 29, 2011 3:28 PM 

293 I prefer more periods and a slightly longer day to allow the students the flexibility of choosing extra electives. This is esp. 

true for those students in band, who automatically forfeit an extra eletive while other students and student/athletes do not. 

As for labs, you can have dedicated lab days for science class that can borrow time from other electives, maybe once a 

week, since they may have more flexible requirements toward graduation. Labs are important in science and the more 

time you have the better. Scheduling will be the most challenge in the 7-day period esp. if you are considering extra time 

for labs and simulations. More periods to choose at least 3 extra electives, however, is key. 

294 Students who take extra curricular activities such as band practice until late most days. This would lengthen their day 

and classes if we go to the 7 period day and add on to their workload. How can we do it to students who already struggle 

with time management. Personally my child needs more time to focus on each class. A 5 period day would give her 

more time to absorb material with help of a teacher and also give her one less subject to focus on at study time. This 

schedule makes most sense for average students who have to work for their grades. 

295 I have both an AP student in high school now and a son in EIP in 7th grade. I am trying to find the program that would fit 

both their needs. I believe it is important for my daughter to be able to fit fine arts into her schedule along with Spanish. I 

believe my son will benefit to a focus of 5 classes vs 6 or 7. I think the 3x5 schedule fits both their needs. 

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Aug 29, 2011 10:48 AM 

Aug 29, 2011 9:59 AM 

Aug 29, 2011 9:00 AM 

296 I do NOT want to see a longer day for high school students. Aug 29, 2011 8:29 AM 

297 Why do we have to increase the work load on all students just so those that do not try are allowed to make up failed 

material during the school day? Will that not cause them to fail more classes when taking 7 instead of 6? Won't that 

encourage them to try less the first time? Is it really broken? 

Aug 29, 2011 8:27 AM 

298 4 day week...start after labor day end before memorial day...... Aug 29, 2011 8:21 AM 

299 How would a trimester class carry .5 credit, the same a a full 18-week semester class? Would colleges not look at Aug 28, 2011 11:23 PM



trimester credits as weaker than semester credits? 

300 If the school day had to be longer I think it would help to start school the day after Labor Day. The money saved cooling 

the schools in August would be tremendous. 

35 of 103 

Aug 28, 2011 9:40 PM 

301 I feel the Trimester schedule would be a HUGE mistake. The GAP times MUST be avoided! Aug 28, 2011 9:16 PM 

302 when considering the hours/length of day for high school and middle school for the upcoming year, consideration should 

be given to changing times so that high schoolers can drop off/pick up middle school siblings. It is impossible for my high 

schooler to pick up my middle schooler now. It is a waste of time and gas to drive and pick him up when my son is 

already right there at WHS. 

Aug 28, 2011 7:48 PM 

303 Our students need to be on an even playing field with other high schools in the state Aug 28, 2011 7:13 PM 

304 Maybe consider year round school, it is the same as what they have except for the breaks are shorter. This way these 

kids can still retain what they have learned, not out on the streets, and teachers will still be employed. 

305 The most important thing to me is that students are able to keep the same teacher each semester, so that time and 

energy learning new procedures and methods is not wasted, and productive student-teacher relationships are allowed 

time to develop and grow with the students throughout the year. 

306 My children seem to be bogged down at times with the HW and testing of six classes. I feel they will be overwhelmed 

having to do work for an additional (7th) class especially since they both participate in varsity sports. Having only 5 

classes will allow for greater focus on each subject. 

307 The 7 period day schedule has many more advantages as far as we are concerned than the other two options. We all 

feel it is important not to have gaps in instruction and for the students to keep the same teachers throughout the year, 

except for electives which may only last for one semester. The 7 period hybrid and 3 x 5 trimester options offer confusing 

schedules and will raise the problem of information retention for students who have a trimester break in a subject. We 

strongly want to see the 7 period option be the recommendation and not either of the other two choices. 

308 I do not agree with the extended school day ; the 20 minute focus period is not working as it was presented. The 

pretence that this time was to be a study hall is not being offered to the children. addtionally the current school day has 

added to the trafffic problems at dissmissal. A study hall would benefit any student needing extra help from their teachers. 

The study hall would also aide working parents with assisting their students who are having difficulty. The three choices 

in this survey as presented , I would not approve. secondly the choices in this survey need to be revalutated by a broader 

sampling of residents of this county. Please allow this issue to be brought to a county wide vote.issues such as education 

should be representive as a whole. As for the school schedule, I believe that it is best to begin the school year after Labor 

Day and end the last week of May. This will cut the cost of transportation and the building maintenance cost overall. I 

Aug 28, 2011 5:55 PM 

Aug 28, 2011 5:08 PM 

Aug 28, 2011 4:31 PM 

Aug 28, 2011 3:01 PM 

Aug 28, 2011 1:37 PM



have never seen the benefit of a Winter Break. The students starting time should be revaluated as well. It is too hot in the 

state of Georgia to begin school at the warmest time of the year. as a parent i disagree with the 12month plan, for our 

children the 12month year is to long and would be not beneficial to the education of our students. 

309 My child is in Elem school, as a parent its important to have choices. I came from a HS in MN in which we had electives, 

this helps HS students to experience and learn about career choices as well as what they would like to specialize in 

college. It gices thema a taste of the real world at same time still being about to be a teenager. Choice is good for all 

students no matter what the accademic levels thay are at, CHOICES HELP DEVELOPE CONFIDENCE. 

310 My primary reason for wanting the change is to give students a chance for more electives to broaden the learning 

experience. 

311 I think that high school students can handle flexibililty. They need to work with different variables to be able to be 

"problem solvers". 

312 3X5 schedule will help to eliminate the long Summer breaks. This will ease the burden on working parents; shorter breaks 

may help the student to better retain material from the semester before. The committee should take a look at the 

Caribbean system and other countries. Having multiple instructors is a plus, may help to better prepare student for 

college 

313 My daughter is only a high school freshman, so we do not have a great deal of experience with schedule difficulties. She 

is a gifted student taking two gifted courses and Spanish II. This is a difficult course load for her and she is receiving a 

wonderful education that we are very proud of. However, the time is going to come where she needs to decide on 

colleges and what her future direction will be. The more exposure she can have to various electives will greatly help her. 

My husband and I were both able to take various electives that exposed us to our career fields. We would like for our 

daughters to be able to continue their music and AP courses, as well as experience other electives. Thank you for taking 

the time to allow our Fayette County students the ability to see that there are more careers out there than they might be 

interested in. For those students that aren't interested in a four year school after graduation, there is nothing wrong with 

being able to see what lies ahead through vocational training. As our population in Fayette County grows, so much the 

way we educate our students. 

36 of 103 

Aug 28, 2011 1:04 PM 

Aug 28, 2011 9:49 AM 

Aug 28, 2011 12:29 AM 

Aug 27, 2011 10:10 PM 

Aug 27, 2011 6:41 PM 

314 Please keep 6 period day Aug 27, 2011 4:25 PM 

315 The 7 periods a day I think would be helpful and not confusing for the students. Aug 27, 2011 4:17 PM 

316 How about a 7 period rotating schedule with 6 classes per day so that each class gets the same amount of instructional 

time but does not always meet at the same time of day? Some other schools do this. It does not require an increase in 

the school day. 

Aug 27, 2011 3:37 PM



317 I under stand the schedules were gone over in class with students. As a parent, I do NOT feel informed enough to make 

a qualified decision. I went with the recommendations of my 9th grader. It would be helpful to have a live question & 

answer session for parents. Thanks! 

318 The additional time provided for students with special needs to participate in extracurricular activities is needed. They are 

currently not able to choose classes that would enrich them personally because of the need to take only classes that 

enrich their much needed diploma. I also like the 3x5 Trimester Schedule because it allows for more flexibility, and 

provides special needs students more opportunities to pass difficult courses. 

37 of 103 

Aug 27, 2011 12:43 PM 

Aug 27, 2011 12:06 PM 

319 I feel more time of instruction gets the kids to retain it more and to be able to ask questions and actual learn the material. Aug 27, 2011 10:46 AM 

320 Based on my older Children's experience with advanced courses and demanding music and art classes, 7 periods is too 

many. It adds an extra course for homework. My older children routinely were up until 2 am for school actvities and 

homework. My 8th grader already has about five hours of homework a night after football which ends around 6. We have 

to draw the line. 

321 many students work after school or participate in sports...the trimester system would better fit these students allowing 

them time to focus on 5 courses at time without added pressure of additional course (as in 7 period option) Added 7th 

period course would force students to take "easy" courses in order to manage their time and course load. Additionally 7 

th period would make it extremely difficult for student athletes and working students. I appreciate that the board is looking 

into options for fayette county students as our students are behind their peers in graduation credits and course 

opportunities 

322 I am worried about the 7 period options. Sitting in a 50 minute class can be struggle for most, extending a class to 90 

mins may feel like cruel and unusual punishment. Most students will stop paying attention at the 60 min mark and the 

remaining 15 to 30 mins may be lost. Unless you are planning to radically change the mode of delivery and move away 

from lecturing, your students are use to switching task every few mins. So I am worried about the extra teaching time 

being wasted because of the difficulty of focusing so long. Thank you for soliciting input. 

Aug 27, 2011 8:09 AM 

Aug 26, 2011 8:21 PM 

Aug 26, 2011 6:43 PM 

323 same schedule as always pleaseeee Aug 26, 2011 6:25 PM 

324 would like to have 4 days to save fund and NO to out of county tuition!!! Aug 26, 2011 6:11 PM 

325 My son is only in Kindergarten right now but there is no way he could focus for 70-90 minutes on one subject. He is too 

active and I don't see that changing in the future. 

Aug 26, 2011 5:41 PM 

326 I like the schedule as it is. I do not think it needs to change for all to accomodate the needs of some. Aug 26, 2011 4:36 PM 

327 My son on the football team & decided to choose healthcare class instead of weight training & because of him being on Aug 26, 2011 4:36 PM



the football team he has to weight train so now he is having to stay 30mins after practice to weight train or during IF he 

can weight train for 20 mins instead working on homework. A 7 period day would work well for him. 

328 The school day must end earlier. Parent conferences cannot be conducted in 20 minutes. There is no reason for these 

kids to be kept in school any more time for a study hall. If anything, the school day should start earlier so that students 

can have family time. school time, and extracurricular time. 

329 I do not see a need to change the school schedule. I am a proponent of the 6 period day. Fayette County students are 

highly competative at the college level and we have always been recognized as one of Georgia's best school systems. 

The additional period is not needed...show me facts that colleges and universities look negatively at our students coming 

from a 6-peirod day...there are none. This survey is completely unfair as it does not give the community the option of 

keeping what we have. 

330 They can't take ap classes (which they need for college) on the 7 period day because there isn't enough time to study for 

all 7seven subjects. 3X5 has problems, but its better than 7 periods. 

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Aug 26, 2011 3:04 PM 

Aug 26, 2011 2:07 PM 

Aug 26, 2011 1:42 PM 

331 4 day school week by adding on additional 30 minutes a day. Aug 26, 2011 12:21 PM 

332 if possible stay as same schedule 6th period as of 2011-2012 NO CHANGING. Aug 26, 2011 11:14 AM 

333 Start school after Labor Day. Aug 26, 2011 11:13 AM 

334 same scheadule please Aug 26, 2011 11:04 AM 

335 Majority of Fayette County students are headed toward college. Choose the schedule best for those kids. I also want 

college bound kids given the option of taking vocational classes. Those ARE important too. 

Aug 26, 2011 10:51 AM 

336 I picked this without looking at the schedules being offered. I could not pull them up but will keep trying. Aug 26, 2011 10:35 AM 

337 This was completed based on my 9th grade student. The senior that just left would have completely different answers. It 

did cause her to drop Orchestra to take AP classes her senior year. 

338 Why did the county send out this survey and then approve a survey on the 4 day work week? Why not put this all 

together and send out one survey? Seems the educational foundation of Fayette needs revamped, 

339 I not sure how the 3x5 Trimester will implement the Instruction Focus. The presentation didn't may this point clear. My 

hope is that the Instruction Focus will be one block of time inwhich the students can go to the subject were they need the 

most help in. Also, the students should be able to obtain passes which allow them to switch subject for the Instruction 

Focus on a weekly or daily bases. I'm not sure how much more it would cost and it wasn't included in the three schedules 

Aug 26, 2011 10:31 AM 

Aug 26, 2011 9:19 AM 

Aug 26, 2011 9:03 AM



but I would support year round school. 

340 I had several opportunities in high school to attend a vocational school, or different vo-tech classes within my school. I 

am very disappointed that Fayette Co. schools do not offer these opportunities. Surrounding school districts do offer 

these programs and it severely hadicaps our children after school when seeking employment, or trying to decide where 

they want to go in life. Having the opportunity during high school to explore these trades would help them determine their 

future, and/or give them a jump start. I would like to see things like building trades, welding, automotive, etc. that the kids 

participate in these activities in a scheduled class each day. I have a child that has struggled each year in math. I feel 

that the 7 period day would be a great asset ofr kids like mine to continue to learn without giving up the very important 

electives. School has to be fun to, or they will find their own fun. Thank you 

341 I must be under a misconception. I thought that educational decisions were to be research based. In the presentation I 

viewed, none was presented to support any of the three options. Has there been absolutely no research done in this 

area? I did see one instance where research was mentioned but it was not identified. If you say that research indicates 

or supports an idea, are you not supposed to list the source of the research being referred to? I mean, this is supposed to 

a presentation prepared by "educated" individuals is it not? I swear that in the research course that I took in graduate 

school we were told to always cite our sources when making declarative statements and attributing ideas to research 

already done in support or opposition to ideas and concepts. Now I see why public education is under such attack now 

days by the media and conservatives. . 

342 I think the students of Fayette County need to be able to compete for college admission and scholarships based on the 

number of credits received from graduation. If they only receive 23 now, they need to be able to obtain more credits and 

be able to compete against other students in the state of Georgia and across the United States. Question for the 

committee: Is there any data from the other school systems that are using the above 3 schedules that the committee can 

analyze before they make a final decision? 

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Aug 26, 2011 8:23 AM 

Aug 26, 2011 7:41 AM 

Aug 26, 2011 7:17 AM 

343 My child took 7 classes in middle school. It was much better! Aug 26, 2011 12:32 AM 

344 I do not like any of the choices. I am not convinced that the current schedule should be abandoned. This survey is 

obviously very, very biased. You do not even provide the choice of continuing with the present system. 

345 I do not want my daughter to have to take 7 classes in a day. The extra classes would either cause too much homework 

on a daily basis or they would not challenge her and would waste her time during the day. If a change must be made, I 

would much rather have her only take 5 classes at a time or I would prefer that there be no change at all. 

Aug 25, 2011 10:09 PM 

Aug 25, 2011 10:01 PM 

346 4 day week Aug 25, 2011 9:19 PM 

347 I believe it is important that we allow our students the access to the types of courses that will allow them to explore 

different interests and academic areas that they are not allowed access to with the current semester schedule. I have 

Aug 25, 2011 8:29 PM



always thought it was wrong to make a child choose between activities like band, chorus, art, drama and the like because 

we only allow time for one elective while they are working to achieve the credits that are required to be accepted to a 

four-year university. 

348 more time for fine arts electives for students Aug 25, 2011 7:55 PM 

349 I like the idea of starting after labor day and ending before memorial day. Aug 25, 2011 7:29 PM 

350 The ability to take more AP classses is very important. Aug 25, 2011 7:05 PM 

351 Very important to give a student that struggles extra time to get the help they need with a teacher or class he/she may 

need. 

352 My child has taken chorus and drama for the 2 years she has been at school. She is a sophmore and she doesn't want to 

give up her fine arts. No student really does unless they only joined to get a easy grade. The fine arts are going down hill 

at Sandy Creek and we need the 7th period day. Then everyone can have more electives, more dredits, and extra help if 

they need it. No student is going to say "yes we want to be in school longer" actually I am a student i just wanted to give 

my opinion. Because honestly the little survey we get is just leading us to say we don't want a 7th period day. Chorus is 

important to a lot of people in my school. And its not fair that people have to drop it for credit recovery. Fine arts is 

actually good for students. Drama helps when your having to speak infront of others. Band and chorus do math, history, 

and teaches responsibility. I don't thinks its a smart idea to have block schedule because students forget stuff and taking 

big breaks would be horrible for academics. Go to a 7th period day. 

353 I would not want to see this change occur in 2012 because it would negatively affect seniors for the 2012-2013 school 

year. It would be better to look at such a schedule for children who would be Freshmen or Sophomores in high school at 

some future date, if at all. 

354 Really, maybe it's not the schedule but standards. I have had two children graduate from Whitewater and both are in 

college. Both are in honors programs and both graduated at Whitewater with over a 4.0. My daughter and son took 4 

years of band/orchestra and 4 years of Spanish. My children both had 4 years of Science, Math, and did not sacrifice a 

thing. Why don't you focus on correcting the New Math program you created. Listen, lets keep the new time schedule 

and longer days you created this year. Perhaps you haven't heard a jack of all trades but a master of none. Seems to 

me that is what you are doing with the new system. Thank goodness my last child graduates Whitewater next you and 

you will have only ruined his senior year! 

355 I hope that the Board considers how much all students have on their plates. Colleges these days except a resume. 

Many of these students are juggling grades, clubs, and extra curric. to build these resumes for admission. 

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Aug 25, 2011 5:44 PM 

Aug 25, 2011 5:32 PM 

Aug 25, 2011 5:23 PM 

Aug 25, 2011 4:58 PM 

Aug 25, 2011 4:36 PM 

356 I think before a decision is made, a trial run of all three schedules should be done. This will help the teachers and Aug 25, 2011 4:17 PM



students better able to make a decision on a change that will affect them. 

357 Please consider starting school later in August or preferably after labor day. Aug 25, 2011 2:51 PM 

358 As you look at making the school day longer, I would like to suggest that the high school students start school earlier than 

8:25 so that they can get out of school earlier. Most high school students have a job or participate in afternoon activites, 

so an earlier release time helps them to schedule these activities and have time to get their homework done. 

359 I am not opposed to having 7 periods a day but I feel the day does not need to be extended as much as you are looking 

at OR are you going to decrease the number of days throughout the year because there are more educational hours???? 

Why do we have 7 minutes between periods? Can we decrease that to 5 minutes to adjust for the time added to the 

day? I DO NOT LIKE THE INSTRUCTIONAL FOCUS ADDED TO THIS YEAR!!!!! IT IS POORLY THOUGHT OUT. 

360 Even though my children have not had to drop out of fine arts course due to scheduling conflicts, I know of several 

students that have had to make that decision. I am concerned that if the 3x5 option is chosen, that it will have a negative 

impact on our fine arts programs, particularly band. At our school, and it may be the case at other schools, students are 

placed in particular ensembles based on their ability and level of interest. My older daughter, along with several of her 

friends, received scholarship money for college for music. With the 3x5 option, it looks like they may not be able to 

schedule the same band class each trimester and there is not enough continuity for the other classes either. To me, the 7 

period day makes the most sense. Even though it lengthens the school day, it seems it would provide the most continuity 

for students and teachers alike and would allow students more options in what classes they might like to take. 

361 The more classes the children can take, I feel like would enable them to find something that they are interested in. The 

more options that the student has, the better the chances are for them to find something they enjoy, and instead of going 

to college as an undecided major, they would have a better idea of what to major in so they can start taking their major 

classes earlier, instead of getting all the core classes out of the way sooner. 

362 Kill winter break!!! Don't go back to school until after Labor Day like the majority of the country! Why,is this not being 

considered? We have some of the lowest test scores in the country as a state. Seems to me this makes sense....could 

someone please tell me why we don't do this? 

363 I am concerned about the education level my children will receive and a lot of that depends on how stretched the 

teachers are. Please outline duty and instructional focus requirements for teachers for each of the options. Currently 

only mentions teacher duty on 7 period option and IF on 7 period hybrid. Additionally, on 7 period hybrid option, a 

teacher feasibly would have no break from students during the whole day, if they are teaching periods 2, 4, 6 and 

instructional focus. My child will be better taught by a teacher who receives a solid break from children during the day. 

Thank you. 

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Aug 25, 2011 2:45 PM 

Aug 25, 2011 2:29 PM 

Aug 25, 2011 2:27 PM 

Aug 25, 2011 1:38 PM 

Aug 25, 2011 1:38 PM 

Aug 25, 2011 1:30 PM 

364 When I started college in 1981, it was a 3x5 trimester sschedule. I think it would be a plus to have familiarity with that Aug 25, 2011 1:24 PM



schedule. I like the idea of fewer periods because it would give better time for more thorough instruction. In a 50 minute 

class, I have found that at least 5-7 minutes could be wasted in getting kids to order. Maybe it's different now, but that's 

how it was in the 80's. Also, for one child, having fewer periods would be less stressful regarding transitions. My other 

child is into band and I think this would accomodate her desires as well. 

365 Summer school to be available to all students. This would give them the opportunity to excel , not just catch up . This was 

standard procedure where we came from originally . We are competing world wide with countries that send there kids to 

school 6 days a week sometimes until 10pm . we need longer school years also. 

366 7 periods seems to overcomplicate the education process for students. The 5 period trimester seems to be more 

manageable and less stressful for students. 

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Aug 25, 2011 1:14 PM 

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367 I was not able to laod the power point, as it came up blank, making this survey difficult to complete Aug 25, 2011 11:42 AM 

368 The length of the school day should not be extended. The stakeholder group should have had parents participate. Aug 25, 2011 11:10 AM 

369 For question 18, the choice of maintaining a 6 period day is not listed as though it is not a consideration. This seems 

myopic and foolish. This new schedule is regressive at best from a successful academic schedule with time for serious 

coursework. 

370 Another disadvantage of the hybrid schedule is the lack of continuity for math and language classes. The 3 x 5 schedule 

reduces the already limited time for teachers to connect with children. 

371 2 lunch periods instead of 3 will help with the school schedule/timing. instead of 70 minutes of instruction make it 60 

minutes for the 7 period days. 

372 Schedule should be based on the average student. AP kids will excel and students who struggle will struggle. Struggling 

makes them stronger students. I was a struggling student and I still love learning at 47. 

373 The positive of the 7 Period Day Hybrid Schedule is the 90 min. once a week class time for students who need additional 

help in a class. However, it would be a challenge for those who struggle to stay focused for the normal 50 minutes and 

they would then become a disruption to others. 

374 I am a firm supporter of the fine arts and believe that they contribute strongly to the overall education of a child. My 

daughter dropped Spanish after two years so that she could continue in Chorus and also take AP classes. We hated that 

she had to make this choice. 

375 Why change when the current system is working? This "change" will cost the tax payers a lot of money. When is election 

time? 

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376 This is part of the reason for our financial problems. School should focus on the basics and not punish students and 

parents who DO WHAT THEY ARE SUPPOSED TO ACADEMICALLY. The students who fail now will also fail with the 

proposed schedule changes. Guitar, orchestra, etc. are extras and should not be the responsiblity of the tax payer. Each 

of these schedules is desinged for those who want their cake and eat it too. Why is the option unavailable to keep it the 

same? Life is about choices and we don't need to change the schedule at all. Our focus has always been on academics 

at our house. Why shouldn't that also be the focus of the BOE? If these options are so important, let them take a 0 

period class, a night class, or take a class during the summer. The extra curriculars are taking away from academics 

already. Why should we take more away from academics by adding time to more extracurriculars? 

377 The 3x5 is an option both students and teachers benefit most from. It is also the least complicated for a student or new 

students to remember. It also alllows students more time in class to work on homework or a science lab and more time for 

a teacher to discuss the lesson with their students. 

378 My son had to give up Spanish to continue in chorus and take courses needed for college. # 14 in addition to AP 

classes, he would take Academic and Foreign Language classes. 

379 My older children who attended Starr's Mill were regularly at school from 7:30 (zero period) until 5pm for rehearsals / 

practices. My middle school son is the same way. A longer school day will only add more wonderful content to his day. 

Either way, he will be at the school enjoying himself and working with amazing teachers who stay after school. Please 

add another period to the high school day so that our kids don't have to choose between core classes and fine arts. My 

children love the core classes, languages, sports AND all the fine arts; they sing, play instruments, act and dance. So 

many students want to do it ALL. Please support the fine arts programs by allowing more students to get involved. Just 

like sports, being involved in your school's fine arts is a great motivator for being engaged with the school staff, teachers 

and fellow students. 

380 In order to extend the school day and high school students have the ability to fulfill after school committments, the board 

should consider swapping the times school begins with the elementary schools. The high schools should begin school 

earlier in order to get out in time for after school committments (band, sports, job, younger sibling care, etc.). 

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381 iwe stringly feel the 3x5 trimester schedule would give the kids something more to look forward to passing each quarter. Aug 24, 2011 10:51 PM 

382 1. An 8:40 A.M. start time for High School is way too late in the day. 2. Six or seven classes per day is ridiculous. Too 

much inormation and not enough teaching. Promotes mediocrity and not excellence. 3. Allow sufficient time for activities 

in the afternoon, e.g. sports, jobs, homework, community service, etc. School should not be an all-day event. 

383 I am completely against the 3 x 5 trimester schedule because gaps in subjects such as English or math are unacceptable. 

This will be detrimental to both the students and teachers. 

Aug 24, 2011 10:26 PM 

Aug 24, 2011 9:36 PM 

384 I would like my child to stay in fine arts. Aug 24, 2011 9:09 PM



385 Go back to normal times... 8:30am to 3:20pm Aug 24, 2011 9:07 PM 

386 We need to make Fayette County students as competive as possible, even if that means higher taxes. Our children's 

education should be everyone's priority. 

387 dont change the schedule. my child has all A's and is in all advanced classes. he does very well in the current schedule 

although he finds instructional focus a waste of time because he does not have any work to do in it. PLEASE DONT 

CHANGE THE SCHEDULE AGAIN 

388 Credit recovery should be handled strictly by open campus. Ap students should be offered more after school or online 

options by utilizing the access/joint enrollment programs. 

389 7 period day schedule would best suit my child because of the limited amount of time in the school day. Also, the amount 

of required units restricts the school day even more. Another fact to consider is that the fine arts program is very 

important. It provides students with a great amount of stress relief and happiness during their school days. 

390 Both my children are in IEP and I believe that the 3 x 5 will give them more opportunities for other classes as well as 

make learning easier with more time and less subjects at a one time. 

391 The 3x5 schedule gives students and teachers flexibility. The 7th Period day has the potential to overhwhelm both 

students and teachers, as the notion that core teachers will only teach 5 out of 7 classes will ever be a reality with the 

budget issues looming for next year. When you give core teachers 6 classes, as you will indeed do as soon as the 7th 

period day is adopted, then I will have to wait even longer to see my kid's grade updated. Furthermore, I love that my 

child has teachers who get to know him, who care about him. If you give them more to do, they will have less time for my 

child. And if you give my child more to do in a day, when will he sleep? 

392 Extra time is not needed for labs because teachers teach for the EOCT. For instance, in chemistry my daughter's teacher 

claimed there was no time during the year for experiments till after the EOCT. The weeks after the EOCT were spent 

doing lab experiments for the whole year. Nevermind that most students learn by doing experiments. But this teacher 

had to cover the EOCT material. 

393 my daughter would really like to take the early childhood development all 4 years of high school, and 3 years of the health 

occupation class, along with the 2 years required foreign language in spanish and then an additional year in french or 

work study. so the extra period would be helpful. and the 3 x5 trimester would allow no summer, and the block classes 

will make her loose interest after a period of time. 

394 7 period day hybrid schedule is the best suitable for teachers and students. I am a teacher and this would be most 

beneficial. 

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395 We prefer to KEEP the 6 period day. If the BOE continues to make mandatory changes in the high school schedule and 

offerings, they will LOSE MORE state money as parents and student opt for dual enrollment with local colleges. This 

translates into less money for the local school system. Parents and students are proud of our local high schools as they 

are. If the board continues to push changes to schedule, then both high achieving as well as struggling students will opt 

for OTHER locations which will listen to them. Do not fix an amazing system with amazing teachers. Keep the 6 

period day. The board needs to focus on budget, not on making changes which will cause families to leave our system 

for all or part of the day taking their $4,000 in state funds with them. 

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Aug 24, 2011 6:46 PM 

396 Kids that are taking AP classes should not have to choose between these classes (Fine Arts or AP classes.) Aug 24, 2011 6:40 PM 

397 I don't think the entire schedule should be changed for a specific group of students. If the criteria for teaching results in 

test scores/crct results changing the schedue isn't going to matter. Teachers need to have some creativity and focus so 

much on testing and results. Not every child learns the same and not every child should have to be robotic in academia. 

398 I'm completely against the extra 20 minutes being added to the school day. It is completely unnecessary and we should 

keep the same 6 period schedule. 

399 The school systems need to just leave the high schools the way they are. Its very confusing and makes my daughters 

extremely frustrated with the time changes every year. Stick to a schedule and dont change it again! 

Aug 24, 2011 6:15 PM 

Aug 24, 2011 6:04 PM 

Aug 24, 2011 6:03 PM 

400 I believe that an extended day is completely unnecessary. Aug 24, 2011 4:29 PM 

401 Do not include block scheduling in new school day. Aug 24, 2011 4:27 PM 

402 Do not include block scheduling in new school day. Aug 24, 2011 4:27 PM 

403 As a parent, my priority is that my children are offered the best opportunities to attend the college of their choice. 

Therefore, I favor the trimester schedule as it offers the opportunity for the most credits. 

404 we need to maintain high academic standards to ensure our chldren are competitive at the college of their choice not only 

in Georgia. 

405 Only go with the 3x5 schedule/70 min periods if the HS teachers are willing to teach it right. Otherwise, stick with short 

classes. 

406 Keep current schedule. If you make the school day longer then sports or after school activities will be finished even later 

which is a big problem for these kids to get their school work and studying done. 

Aug 24, 2011 4:26 PM 

Aug 24, 2011 4:20 PM 

Aug 24, 2011 3:07 PM 

Aug 24, 2011 1:50 PM 

407 As a former student and Fine Arts member, I have found that the participation in the arts has lead me to major academic Aug 24, 2011 1:33 PM



success. Without it in my life, I wouldn't be who I am today. I ask that you please keep fine arts activities in the schools of 

Fayette County to better students and prepare them for the outside world. The arts teaches them respect, time 

management, and fun skills. A 7 period schedule would allow for arts to remain in the lives of the students and create a 

fun "break" in the academic threshold we call high school. 

408 Graduating with enough credits and a variety of electives is important to my students. My daughter had to choose 

between an AP class and and elective that she really wanted to take. We are considering letting her take that through 

other means. It would be nice for her to have been able to do in without being an extra cost to us. 

409 Please do not remove any Fine Arts classes as they are vital to a well rounded education. Also, vital to those individuals 

who will be the next designers of our world! 

410 One of the goals of the high school is to make the transition into college easier for the student. Changes need to be 

made in all areas of the curriculum to allow this transition to happen. Extending the school day by 15 minutes should 

allow for good things to happen for the students and the teachers. 

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411 Which model suits all students from the research that has been done? Aug 24, 2011 1:06 PM 

412 I feel it is important to allow our children the academic opportunity to compete for collegiate placement in schools outside 

of GA. 

413 I also like the 3 X 5 option, but am somewhat concerned with the possible gap of 12 weeks in core classes like math. 

Also not sure about switching teachers in core classes, although in some cases this would be a welcome change. 

(according to my child) 

414 make my child's "electives" longer, so he can get in more exercize, and also, to bring the time of school end back to 3:20, 

because of home chores 

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Aug 24, 2011 11:55 AM 

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415 Have no problem with the way it is run now. Aug 24, 2011 11:22 AM 

416 My student already does a 7 period schedule at middle school and is having no trouble! Easy to continue what they 

already know. 

Aug 24, 2011 11:04 AM 

417 Thank you for creating such a informative powerpoint to review. Aug 24, 2011 10:46 AM 

418 Need to keep subject courses back to back. Survey focused too much on band/chorus/fine arts questions- answers may 

look different if survey addressed the overall need that kids understand the competiveness of college and that HS 

provides opportunities to explore academic interests. Example, my oldest just graduated, took 7 classes for 2 years in a 

row- never stepped foot in a fine arts class but could not all of the classes she wanted to with an academic focus. 

Aug 24, 2011 10:43 AM



419 I attended 5 high schools when I was young. One of them was a hybrid schedule. I hated it! The classes were way too 

long and the change in schedule from day to day was confusing. 

420 Kids need the comfort of a schedule and the same teacher. I don't think the Trimester or Hybrid will allow for that. 

Especially not the Trimester. 

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421 The Trimester Schedule provides more opportunity for a "well rounded" student. Aug 24, 2011 10:03 AM 

422 Allowing our children greater variety in course selection in high school is a great advantage of the 7 period day. Students 

too often need to sacrifice enriching oportunities, for college entrance requirements. The additional period is a good move 

for Fayette County Schools 

423 We have had experience with the A-B day schedule and longer classtime at Our Lady of Mercy High and found the longer 

class times to not be productive. Students and teachers have reduced attention/interest in such long classes. Homework 

increased. I am opposed to the longer classtimes for this reason. Students will adjust to the college times in college. I 

have two master degrees and found the transition to college easy from high school schedules. 

424 If changing to the trimester system I would hope the county would also reconsider the breaks. We start in early August, 

then break in Nov. then from Christmas on have breaks every few weeks. My kids did attend a school with a week off in 

the fall that fell with a trimester system and not Feb. I believe Henry county has the Oct break. 

425 I strongly favor the trimester approach. Fewer classes at a time will allow the students to really focus and learn and also 

allow them to get a new start quicker when they have not done well. The changing schedule everyday would be chaotic 

imo. 

426 First, Thank you for all your hard work. I would just like to say that the best and brightest kids need every opportunity to 

go further. Unfortunately, some kids need to be left behind. If certain kids just aren't making the grade, give them their 

own schedule. The best kids ought to be taking 5 AP's each year starting in their Freshman year. 

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427 revw other schools that have done the 3x5 to evaul pro & cons. i see the 3x5 as a GREAT benefit Aug 24, 2011 9:22 AM 

428 Time is a wasting. Let's get whatever it is to fix our kid's schedule implemented NOW! We are so far behind what other 

states offer their public school system. We need to do something now. 

429 my son is at open campus this year. He is finishing his sophmore year, and moving towards his junior year. My concern is 

by uping the graduation requirements and changing the scheduling it will put more stress on an already stressed child. 

This could make it impossible for him to graduate. How would he make up all these extra credits if he can barely make it 

through what is already expected of him. We have to be aware of kids like my son, who want their diploma and deserve 

it. But cannot compete with kids who are not struggling with health issues. If we do not provide them with a chance at a 

Aug 24, 2011 9:10 AM 

Aug 24, 2011 9:06 AM



fair education what will happen to them? Changing things around is not fair to my son and those he is going to school 

with. 

430 Would not like to "close the gap" (as you call it) on summer break. I think the kids need this transition time in between 

school years. I can see my children getting "burned out" without such a break. Towards the end of their current school 

years, they look forward to the summer break and they're not even in high school yet. Since my son is currently in middle 

school, he is already used to the 7 period day. Now they have 9 wks to improve their grades before report cards. What 

would the grading period be like with a trimester schedule? Would the overall grades suffer or improve with this 

schedule? Even though you would have more credits for college, if their GPA is lower, it wouldn't quite matter. I don't 

even know if this would affect him, but the grading system for the trimester wasn't mentioned in the pdf presentation. 

Thank you. 

431 My high school in Illinois has had 8 fifty minute periods for at least 30 years now and ran from 0720 to 2:35 pm. Eight 

periods worked well because everyone had an opportunity to take extra electives or have a lab or shop class. Using my 

experience with an 8 period day and your powerpoint presentation as a reference I would choose either of the 7 period 

days, preferably the regular 7 period day. 

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432 3 x 5 is more like what students would have in college. It makes total sense Aug 23, 2011 10:56 PM 

433 7 Period Hybrid is not a practical option. Aug 23, 2011 10:18 PM 

434 Students who struggle are the forgotten ones in high school. They need the opportunity to be successful; they can get 

that by being allowed to take electives, rather than just the academic offerings. Not everyone is a scholar, nor does 

everyone want to or need to go to a tier one college. We need to teach to the strengths of all of our children, not just to 

those whose focus is strictly academic. 

435 Instructional Focus is useless in the morning. Your homework should already be done when you get to school. The 

proposed IF in the 7 day Hybrid is more efficient at the end of day and mid week. Love the idea of longer lab times. My 

child is currently in support and did feel cheated that she could not have the electives she wanted. Also credits to meet 

college requirements are important. Thank you for the changes, this will be very positive. The only request is to have the 

buses pick up as late as possible, teens need sleep :) 

436 Because of the current system my son will have to take a foriegn language outside of the school system to meet Ga 

Regent Requirements 

437 We need to keep it the same. Due to the amounts of parents that need their kids to be out at a certain time to see them 

before they leave for their flight scheduled at 5:00P.M. for a foreign country that the boy/girl possibly won't see for over a 

month. As an addition we have better test scores then any school in Georgia, that would make absolutely no sense at all 

to change the schedule more then it needs to be. Most of these things are bad for kids memory's and most of them will 

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Aug 23, 2011 9:50 PM



get confused. Making a longer school day and changing classes around is a very bad idea. 

438 It is not obvious to me what the options mean in terms of semester/trimester break dates and durations. That is a very 

important factor for us in planning work/family balance concerns. We would not want to have the Christmas break 

compressed, for example, as that is traditionally a time when we can spend a few weeks all together as a family without 

the pressures/distractions of school and work. 

439 Definitely don't like the idea of a 7 period day and the shorter class periods. The 3/5 meets most of the needs for most of 

the children and offers the most credit hours. Not concerned at all about the "gap" times. 

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440 Not to extend the school day. It was extended this year and I do now want to have it extended again next year. Aug 23, 2011 8:22 PM 

441 All I can say is I think it would be GREAT for them to switch to a trimester schedule---I think it would hopefully take some 

of the pressure off of my sophomore. And, speaking of AP classes, they need to be taken out of the schools altogether. 

Nothing ruins a kid more than those ridiculous courses. Dr. Beardon supports this, I believe. The school administrators 

are so brainwashed that they cannot see what a detrimental effect these classes have on the kids. They do not prepare 

them for anything but stress. Send out an AP survey and I will tell you the full story. HORRIBLE experience. 

442 I have two sons who have also graduated from Mcintosh in the top 5% of their class and have gone on to Georgia Tech. 

The regular six-period schedule has obviously worked for them. My daughter is going to be a senior next year and by the 

time she starts the new schedule, colleges will only be looking at her past three years. These new schedules are 

completely unnecessary for those who will graduate after one year of it. 

443 The schedule that will somewhat reflect a college schedule type (block schedule) would be good for our students to help 

prepare them for that type of schedule as well as offering technical courses in all fayette county highschools to provide 

instructions for those students who will not attend a four year college and/or university, but has other interest in a skill or 

trade. 

Aug 23, 2011 7:50 PM 

Aug 23, 2011 7:23 PM 

Aug 23, 2011 5:50 PM 

444 Please shorten the high school day from 3:40. Aug 23, 2011 4:57 PM 

445 Research shows that any class over the 50-55 minutes time provides little to no significant educational value to students. 

Making class time longer will not add "quality" learning time for students whose attention span will be burned out long 

before that. 

446 The survey doesn't acknowledge parents like me who have 4 students. Neither the survey nor the PowerPoint explain 

what the 12-week gap is. 

447 "intoduction to"electives for half the year instead of a full year would be beneficial and interesting for students of all grade 

and levels 

Aug 23, 2011 4:42 PM 

Aug 23, 2011 4:34 PM 

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448 Within adult education (job training), there is a movement to provide instructional training in 1 hr "bites" or less. Moving all 

classes to 3x5 model of all classes being 70-75 minutes seems like a move in the opposite direction. I like the hybrid 

because it allows for activities that require more time (labs, simulations) but sticks to the current instructional trend. 

449 By eliminating the fine arts in the school, you are eliminating talent and creativity. Students who have the opportunity to 

take a fine arts course have the opportunity to showcase other talents not able to be showcased in regular classes. It 

helps shy kids, it helps with comeratery amungst the students. Please keep the arts in the schools! 

450 I think when you start adding additional time in class you might lose the interest of the child. 70 plus minutes for a class 

is a lot of time. 

451 First, the 7 period schedules are not adding 10-15mins per day. It was adding 35 mins to the day at McIntosh, which 

starts at 8:40 and ends at 3:20. I think 35mins is alot of time to add to an already long day, especially for students with 

after school activities. Second, Why not look at block schedules. Many of the school use those. I know Landmark has 

used them. Many of those have free study periods that allow students to get help from teachers. Third, I may be wrong, 

but I don't think the majority of students are looking for more classes to take. If you are going to lengthen the day, I would 

give more time to the core classes, so teachers have more time to cover the increase in material they have to cover for all 

these required test. Fourth, if you are going to change the schedule, maybe you can allow time for all these workshops 

and credits hour they have to have, which makes many of them miss class one to two weeks a year. Lastly, why cannot 

sports be consider a for an elective course credit. They allow team sports, band, chorus, drama, and wood shop. If they 

allowed kids on the school sport teams to get elective credit for their sport, they could schedule that class at the end of 

the day. This would keep kids from missing their last period, because they have to leave early for games. Kids could start 

practice earlier, so they have more time to study. I think kids learn just as much about discipline, time management, 

working together, and physical fitness as they do in team sports. Just a suggestion. 

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452 Why no parents (non-school employees) on the committee? Aug 23, 2011 2:55 PM 

453 Please do not forget sports. Aug 23, 2011 2:46 PM 

454 I really don't know. All of them seem a pretty drastic change. Aug 23, 2011 1:40 PM 

455 I would like the opportunity for tutoring to be available during the school day for my daughter who struggles with 

completing homework without guidance 

456 If students are having a hard time passing 6 classes how in the world are they going to pass 7 classes. Wouldn't it be 

better if they took less classes like 5 and actually passed them. They might even master them. 

457 I appreciate taking parent input, but I feel the teachers should have the most say on this matter. Making our schools 

more appealing to colleges is very important, but with the zero period option available, I am not sure that the best choice 

Aug 23, 2011 1:36 PM 

Aug 23, 2011 12:34 PM 

Aug 23, 2011 10:41 AM



is stated above. Maybe you need to consider expanding the zero period classes available. 

458 Lose the winter break - It is a waste of time Aug 23, 2011 10:29 AM 

459 My son is a senior and has struggled for the entire 4 years. My daughter will be entering during the 12-13 school year 

with plans to study pre-med in college. I feel that she will need all of the opportunities to compete fairly and that the trisemester 

will give her a leg up. 

460 I'm pleased to see the Board addressing the need to conform our children's schedule with that of other school systems in 

the US, the consideration of multiple alternatives and the way stakeholder input has been solicited. 

461 Speaking as a parent who went through all grade levels in Fayette County schools, I would like to see grade-weighting 

done for those students who opt to take tougher schedules through AP and extra electives so they are fairly assessed 

against those students who do not take tougher scheduling. The failure to weight grades for AP students is almost 

punitive in that it fails to reward extra effort put forth by high-achievers. 

462 I truely like the Trimester idea, but feel that class times are too long, especially for kids with ADHD. Classes which do not 

require labs or hands on activities, will struggle with "filling time" usefully. The hybrid also sounded fun, and a good way 

of preping for a college schedule, however, if a sick day is taken on tues, or wed., by student/teacher it would be 

comparable to missing 2 days of class, and the other 3 days would not offer appropriate time for make up, and continued 

learning. I think 7 period works great, but I feel 8 periods would be more appropriate with keeping up with the rest of the 

countries credit opportunity. Thank you 

463 I have had a child graduate from SMHS. Schedule works great. I have a younger child. Keep schedule the same. Survey 

is bias to certain agendas.Leaning for certain answers. 

464 Our child had to choose between 3 connections - she chose a foreign language and band, but was also very interested in 

JROTC. The 7 period day would allow her to participate in all three. 

465 Ideally having my child be able to choose a career path by taking some introductory courses in High School rather than 

wait until he enters college. Would greatly help him to succeed in life. 

466 I strongly do not want to see our schools bring in outsiders for tuition. There is a reason we chose to live here and that 

was the quality of the education. Outsiders could bring down the quality of the school and the education. For extra 

funding I feel we should rent out school space in the evenings. 

467 My family and I moved out here from Phoenix Arizona a year ago, (sophmore year) and were disappointed in the High 

School curriculum offered at Starrs Mill. I HIGHLY recommend you research Desert Vista, in Phoenix AZ and learn from 

their success. It is an outstanding high school that benefits the student 100%. The students at Starrs Mill will not have 

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enough credits to compete with their classmates, nor are they benefiting from fine art electives. Also, you may want to 

consider starting school earlier for HS students as opposed to keeping them later in the day. It may help with the 

bottleneck of cars in the morning at all three schools. Due to the outstanding education my daughter received from her 

previous high school in Arizona, she will graduate with 6 math credits. That I am thankful for; she will be ahead of some of 

her classmates here in Georgia when she applies for college next year. Please, do some market research from other 

schools and think of the students moving forward. Thank you for your time. 

468 After reviewing the options I prefer the 7 Period Day schedule best. I feel like since the students are already on this 

format for middle school it will be the easiest to adjust to. Also I am not overly concerned with my child taking AP classes 

or numerous electives as I am interested in them considering dual enrollment. Based on what I have heard about the dual 

enrollment program it make more sense than the current AP program in that college credit is given based on passing the 

class rather than passing the class and the AP exam. 

469 My child wants to take ap classes and it seems that the other two schedules just do not mee the criteria necessary for 

this. It is not that I like this choice. It is the fact that it is the best for kids wanting to achieve excellence. 

470 It would be useful for the committee to look at studies on the effect of the length of instructional time on student retention 

and engagement, and also determine the success/failure of these schedule changes in other school districts 

471 The BoE need to strongly consider the survey results of parents, students, and teachers before making a decision that 

they think is politically correct. We chose Fayette County for a reason, other than another county when we moved 7 

years ago...please consider the opinions of those who took the time to answer the survey 

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472 We love the dual enrollment options and move on when ready with college course. Aug 22, 2011 9:28 PM 

473 It is a great opportunity for students to receive as many credits as possible to be more competitive when applying for 

colleges. 

474 The Trimester Schedule would keep students from getting bored with a class know the total amount of weeks for the 

class is shorte even though the class sessions are longer. This plan allows more choices and more opportunities to earn 

credits. 

475 I think the trimester would work the best because students who tend to perform poorly in class have a chance to graduate 

on time. This is because the trimester provides you with the chance to earn a surplus of credits instead of only a 1 credit 

lee-way with graduating on time. 

Aug 22, 2011 9:22 PM 

Aug 22, 2011 9:20 PM 

Aug 22, 2011 8:53 PM 

476 We need to have competive credits earned for college . Aug 22, 2011 8:51 PM 

477 Student feedback and personal experience indicates that instructional focus should be abandoned. Aug 22, 2011 8:29 PM



478 I had a son that already graduated. He failed a semester in English and took an online course to get the credit. It was 

more cost effective, as summer school was too expensive. I have another son who dropped out, due to failing 2 classes, 

half semester each. He felt he would never get caught up and quit. I would love to see something offered in the school to 

help them do this should my last child need this. Also, she takes special help classes now and it eliminates her 

opportunity for fine art classes she's spoken of a desire for. 

479 In our changing world, year-long school with more focus on learning real-world skills is essential. More time for AP 

courses, electives and CTAE courses are very important. Losing summer vacation can easily be made up by having 

more "breaks" during the course of the school year. 

480 I feel that none of these choices best fit my child's needs. She is taking a fine arts and foreign language as her electives. 

She does not need another class, but she would like more time with her teachers. However, every students learns 

differently, and my child can most likely adjust to the schedule unlike some students who cannot. 

481 My child is in 11th grade. This year he is taking band,2 AP classes and Spanish 4. Because he had to take STEM 

Physics he was unable to take an AP science class. he would have had to taken a zero period class like he did last year. 

The day was too long for him. Having 7 periods during the regular day will be better for students like him. Also the hybrid 

will allow students to focus more on some classes on Weds and other classes on Thursday. 

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Aug 22, 2011 8:11 PM 

Aug 22, 2011 7:35 PM 

Aug 22, 2011 7:17 PM 

Aug 22, 2011 6:02 PM 

482 My second choice is the 7 periods a day, but it does make the day more packed and longer. Aug 22, 2011 5:56 PM 

483 I will have children in Whitewater High School for th next 12+ years so going to the trimester schedule allows the greatest 

flexibility and provides the opportunity for Fayette County graduates to have the best preparation for the college 

admissions process. Thank you for asking the parents / communities opinion on this important subject. 

Aug 22, 2011 5:06 PM 

484 i definitely do not like the schedule that would allow gap times. jeff kendrick Aug 22, 2011 4:58 PM 

485 I have attended school on the trimester schedule and loved it. Once teachers and students experience this, it will be hard 

to imagine ever wanting to go back to semesters! 

Aug 22, 2011 4:36 PM 

486 I like the longer class periods being only twice a week to allow for more in-depth learning. Aug 22, 2011 4:27 PM 

487 My child is in the 10th grade and is in AP Statitics. She had to drop orchestra in an effort to keep foreign language. They 

need the opportunity to take music, language and AP to be competitive for colleges out of state. 

488 The 3x5 trimester schedule is NOT a good idea. Students need to have math, english, and science everyday throughout 

the school year. These subjects are very important and need to be taught and reinforced everyday. I would think not 

having math, english, or science for 1 trimester would drastically lower SAT and ACT scores. 

Aug 22, 2011 4:12 PM 

Aug 22, 2011 4:09 PM



489 I hope the powers that be follow through on making some changes. A six period day no longer meets the needs of high 

achieving or low achieving students. 

490 My child is a junior. This year we had to make a decision for her not to take graphic design because she desperately 

wanted to take Chorus for all 4 years. I wanted her to take Chorus because she loves it, but she intends to go to college 

and I had to get her to take 2 years of Spanish due to the foreign language requirment of most colleges. There is 

definitely not enough room in the schedule for electives. I must also add that the questions asked in this survey are 

interesting and did not allow me to express my concern for a combination of foreign language, AP classes and fine arts. 

There is no room for the students to explore disciplines and yet still have college aspirations. It would be a tragedy for 

students to not have the experience of fine arts, or miss the opportunity to attend colleges because they are unaware or 

have to make difficult choices regarding foreign language. This is very serious for our students and I appreciate the 

opportunity to comment. Regarding the student survey.....I do feel asking students if they want to take more classes or 

extend their school day is misleading and will not represent a true assessment of their desire for fine arts, foreign 

language, or ROTC. Smaller schools have more of a challenge offering a variety of AP courses. The scheduling of those 

classes is extremely difficult. Please take that into consideration. 

491 I like the idea of giving students more opportunities to take classes, either "fun" ones or serious ones for those who excel 

academically and want to get into to a very competitive college. BUT I also feel that we are schooling some kids to death. 

I LOVE the idea of a work/study program, or making the last class of the day optional, where those who want to do some 

good things with that time can go off and do so. 

492 Consider the role of the "GUIDANCE COUNSELOR". If more choices are available, then each child should be instructed 

MUCH MORE personally. This job execution at Sandy Creek 2010-2011 was pitiful!!! So more choices is not always 

better if the "professionals" are not interested in giving aid with the students "PLAN" for what, when, how, and why to the 

details of their class schedules. PARENT of SANDY CREEK STUDENT 

493 If the school day is extended, how would that impact bus routes? When the HS start time was previously changed, all 

sorts of problems were created due to middle schools and high schools starting at the same time. There always seems to 

be a shortage of bus drivers even with the staggered start times. Also, as a parent of a gifted and active student, I would 

welcome the opportunity for her to only have to worry about homework for 5 classes per day. Some student athletes don't 

get home from games until around 10:00. It is difficult to begin the homework assignments that late at night for multiple 

subjects. 

494 My ninth grader is a bit overwhelmed. I do not know how to help.Less classes in a day may help. The Hybrid model was 

good too... with the two days of intensive focus. 

495 Change the schedule or not, the bottom line is that my child will still do well in school and be successful since she lives in 

an environment that values learning. She is also highly motivated, something that her father and I can take no credit for. 

The bottom line is that the school district will NEVER be all things to all children, and the more you try the more it gets 

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Aug 22, 2011 3:14 PM 

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Aug 22, 2011 2:24 PM 

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Aug 22, 2011 1:55 PM 

Aug 22, 2011 1:44 PM



screwed up. Some kids do well, and some don't. The ones that don't have a tendency to take more from the learning 

community than they give. They screw around and waste everyone's time and become discipline problems for the 

classroom. I am so tired of dumbing down the curriculum and requirements and giving kids a FALSE sense of how well 

they are actually doing. No wonder the amount of children taking remedial coursework is ridiculously high in GA colleges 

and Universities! We've spent all this time and money trying to motivate and coddle kids who don't want to learn and 

have zero incentive to do so. Some kids aren't wired for university work. There should be zero shame or blame in that!! 

It doesn't mean they are not bright or cannot do prep work, but if their interest lies outside of the university then why are 

we forcing them to jump through the hoops? College isn't the only road for people, nor should it be. I feel terrible for 

these wonderful kids who get stuck taking foreign language and calculus when all they want to do is learn a trade! 

College will be there if they are so motivated but why shove them into a prep diploma and tell them how smart they are 

when the only reason they are doing better is because the standards are being lowered?? My kid is a great student but 

she is no Einstein. However, the coursework is so easy now that the gifted classes and AP classes are packed full of 

kids with an inflated sense of their own intelligence. This whole schedule thing is another gimmick to try and level a 

playing field that cannot be leveled. More hours in a day will not motivate a student to learn, and more exposure to 

subjects when some cannot read at the level necessary to understand the material is futile. It doesn't mean they aren't 

bright--ask the kids who are at the bottom of the class, and most will tell you that school is boring. Well most of the kids 

at the top disagree--but they want to go to college. The kids at the bottom who want to go to college will find a way and 

we should focus efforts towards them. But the ones who are simply following a pre-ordained path because everyone else 

assumes that all kids should go to college --what about them? And you now want to add more time to the school day 

when its already too long for their attention spans? You cannot manufacture motivation--great teachers can inspire it, but 

my children have had some of the finest teachers in Fayette County and even they cannot make a difference with an 

indifferent teen. Legislating more hours in a day feels like punishment--why not put it out there as an option for kids who 

WANT to do extra work? I guarantee you you will weed out the ones that aren't motivated and you will really be able to 

enhance learning for those kids that chose to take advantage of more opportunities. Shut your ears to parents whining 

that their darling isn't doing well and its the schools fault. I'm sick and tired of their voice being heard louder than those of 

us who's children actually work hard at school without being coerced or bribed. Look at the failure rate in GA high 

schools and freshman universities--the numbers don't lie! And you now want to change it up to see if maybe that will 

make a difference? Forgive my cynicism, however I've been in 10 different school systems around the country, both 

private and public, and the number one predictor of success hasn't anything to do with how long the school day is or how 

great the teachers are. The home environment is the overwhelming factor, and I'm sorry to say that government schools 

cannot and should not attempt to make up for that. Block scheduling would be great, but mark my words as soon as the 

scores drop yet again I will be opening up another survey about yet another change. And for the record, the instructional 

focus period is a total waste of time. Please get rid of it--and kindly ask that the teacher who actually sent me a 

SYLLABUS to sign for instructional focus please refrain from doing so. Its ridiculous and redundant. 

496 Need to keep up with college requirements! Aug 22, 2011 1:29 PM 

497 Eliminate week off in Feb; highly unnecessary so soon after long Christmas break. Start school mid or late Aug to reduce 

utility costs and sync with college schedules for families. 

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Aug 22, 2011 1:28 PM



498 I know many parents/students are put off by the longer class times. If the instructor does not make the time engaging 

then the student will become disinterested (that could happen today). Though it will be a big transition our kids and 

teachers will adapt and should not use the longer class time as a detractor. Research has proven the benefits of this 

system. Society will only become more competitive in the future years. This schedule will allow the curriculum to grow 

with the requirements and not have to be altered as soon. Maybe this can be implemented at the lower levels and other 

things like "Spanish" can be introduced earlier. The world is changing WE should not be afraid to embrace it. 

499 Consider AP classes and the length of time alloted for instruction and the dates of the tests. It seems as if the trimester 

schedule would not work for students taking these classes. 

500 As educators, you should know that attention spans wanes after about 20 minutes. Making classes 75 to 90 minutes long 

will be counter productive. Your quality of teaching will drop even lower than it is now. If you want to help kids who are 

struggling, get rid of this absurd math program and hire better quality teachers, especially in the math departments. 

501 Although the classes would be longer, I believe that each student would do better with less classes during the day and 

more time in that classroom. 

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Aug 22, 2011 1:24 PM 

Aug 22, 2011 1:20 PM 

Aug 22, 2011 1:15 PM 

Aug 22, 2011 12:57 PM 

502 More flexbile and inclusive for all students. Aug 22, 2011 12:50 PM 

503 I am excited about the 7 period class schedule(s). But, I am concern for students who cannot handle a 7 class work 

load. For our student, I really want her to have the opportunity to take 7 courses. Currently, our student is in fine arts 

and Spanish all four years. A 7 period schedule allows her to take additional AP classes or take exploratory electives. 

So, for our student, a 7 period format is exciting and wanted. Is there a way to allow students to take 6 or 7 classes on 

the 7 period format ? Perhaps for students who only want to take 6 course, allow the option for one period to be a 

"study hall" period ? 

504 I want my children to stay competitive academically to other HS graduates outside Georgia and the ability for them to try 

different electives so they will be more aware of the interest for college education or potential career in the future. 

505 The 3 x 5 Trimester Schedule allow students to earn 30 credit hours, which is competitive with students in other systems. 

Allowing additional class time increased instructional time. 

Aug 22, 2011 12:45 PM 

Aug 22, 2011 12:18 PM 

Aug 22, 2011 12:14 PM 

506 I am very much opposed to increasing the school day. I would rather any down time be at home. Aug 22, 2011 12:09 PM 

507 My children do not attend HS yet but they already have an abundance of homework. I don't know how children who 

struggle are able to complete this - especially if they have no support or someone with the knowledge to help them at 

home. To add an additional class with additional homework would be even more difficult. I DO believe that those 

students who struggle really need the opportunity to take more electives that they would enjoy and excel in. 

Aug 22, 2011 11:58 AM



508 If it is important to keep the same school hours, could you not shorten each period just a couple of minutes so that you 

would not need to increase the school day for 10 - 15 minutes? 7 periods shortened for 2 minutes each would be 14 

minutes off the day so that the school hours could remain the same as they are now...just a thought. 

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Aug 22, 2011 11:42 AM 

509 My second choice would be the 7 Period Day Schedule. Aug 22, 2011 11:42 AM 

510 7 day schedule would be minimal transition for my middle school child yet allow for more credits throughout hs. 50 

minute class time would not alter focus issue. I like the trimester proposal too but longer class times concern me as to 

student's interest and focus. I see this as closer to a college schedule with fewer classes but probably more homework 

each day. Hybrid is interesting as it changes things up. Each day wouldn't be the same but main concern is the 90 

minute class. Maybe cut that to 75-80 minutes with a 30-35 mini class offering something to students in something they 

may have some interest in or "need to learn/know" that they might not pursue in college but would like to gain some 

knowledge. The positive I see in 

511 Children should be given the opportunity to be able to compete with other schools systems throughout the country. If 

attending school longer, providing more classes, etc then that should be done in order to give our children an advantage. 

Aug 22, 2011 11:21 AM 

Aug 22, 2011 11:09 AM 

512 I do not support year round school and will withdraw my child if this liberal agenda succeeds. Aug 22, 2011 11:06 AM 

513 The 3 x 5 Schedule is the best option. Aug 22, 2011 11:04 AM 

514 I feel that the 3x5 trimester schedule is the best option considering the alternatives. Only 5 classes at a time gives the 

student more time to focus on those subjects, rather than trying to learn 7 different subjects at once. For my son, I feel 

that this would be the best choice. 

515 To us it's important to NOT lengthen the school day, even if only 15-20 minutes. These kids are at school long enough 

and absolutely consumed by the after school programs already. Changing up every 10 weeks or so would also be 

appealing I think. 

Aug 22, 2011 11:03 AM 

Aug 22, 2011 11:03 AM 

516 I think the current schedule should remain in place. Aug 22, 2011 11:01 AM 

517 It is critical that Fayette County be properly aligned with Georgia Board of Regents requirements. Fayetee County does 

its students a disservice by not doing so. There are clearly not enough opportunities in the current school day to allow 

the Fayette County high school students significant exposure to many vocational or fine arts programs available. Fayette 

County high school students can not take band, a foreign lanugage and engineering or design. Many of the students had 

to drop fine arts activities to ensure they meet the requirements for college. 

518 I would like to see the elementary school and high school times changed. The high school kids could have more time for 

their heavier work loads, sports and heaven forbid a job. The elementary school kids could have more sleep ( following 

Aug 22, 2011 10:56 AM 

Aug 22, 2011 10:54 AM



the academy of pediatrics suggestions) less afternoon child care for those who need it, more morning prep for teachers. 

9-3:30 for elementary, 7:30-2:30 for high school. My kids shouldn't be sleep deprived some the high school girls have 

more time to straighten their hair! 

519 Counselors will be critical in the selection of course work even more so than they are now....and right now my child's 

counselor can barely handle her case load.....will need support in counseling offices in order to pull this off successfully or 

it will hurt those currently enrolled in HS who are there in the middle of the change! 

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Aug 22, 2011 10:53 AM 

520 I see the hybrid schedule as the best option for teachers who teach AP classes and science labs. Aug 22, 2011 10:49 AM 

521 Keeping the same schedule as Middle School woulld seem to fit the needs of all. It would continue keeping consistance 

through out their school years. 

522 If my son and other students are having trouble taking 6 class and passing, why would you want students to take 7 

periods and expect to pass. Wouldn,t it be better if they took only 5 and could focus on passing these. A 3x5 looks alot 

better than trying to pass 7 at once and then not doing very good in any. Its better to master 5 and pass than 7 without 

mastering any. 

523 I think the Trimester Scheduling seems to meet all the needs of the students and teachers. I think it is a very creative way 

to do the school year. My son would like to take more electives of his choosing. Thanks! 

524 All are so confusing not sure I understand. Parents should be talked to in person about this at a school meeting to be able 

to make an educated decisions like you all have in your meetings. 

Aug 22, 2011 10:45 AM 

Aug 22, 2011 10:39 AM 

Aug 22, 2011 10:27 AM 

Aug 22, 2011 10:24 AM 

525 Research has proven that longer time in a classroom has improve the student's retention and understanding of a subject. Aug 22, 2011 10:16 AM 

526 Experience in another county is that block scheduling seem more effective in reaching budget objectives and 

uptake/retention of concepts (more time to saturate material). Also, concerned how each option, particularly trimester, 

impacts accumulation of GPA. This option turns course completions over more frequently. Thank you. 

527 Please select a schedule that will allow the students the maximum amount of hours of learning. I am worried that those 

who are interested in AP classes will have to get alot of the information on their own as well as those students who may 

struggle with a subject. 

Aug 22, 2011 10:15 AM 

Aug 22, 2011 10:05 AM 

528 I do not like the 7 period day hybrid schedule at all. Aug 22, 2011 10:00 AM 

529 Which ever schedual that will provide my children the Education & Support they need and prepare them for College is 

what I am looking for. 

Aug 22, 2011 9:48 AM



530 keep it the same as this year without instructional focus period Aug 22, 2011 9:38 AM 

531 Don't change anything! Aug 22, 2011 9:36 AM 

532 The school year does not need to be any longer. My child spends most of his day at school already instead of with his 

family or friends, or sports or activities unrelated to school. adding more work, time, etc. will only complicate things. 

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Aug 22, 2011 9:35 AM 

533 the new extended day does NOT work for our family! Aug 22, 2011 9:32 AM 

534 The college I attended operated on a Trimester Program and it was a great experience. Aug 22, 2011 9:30 AM 

535 My child is only in 10th grade. So far, he has been able to take orchestra and a language for these 2 years. Not sure if 

this continues to be possible for the next 2 years or not. I would like him to be able to take an "academic elective" of his 

choosing (ie: business course etc). 10-15 minutes added to the school day is nothing. I managed to graduate without 

having the same schedule every day. I think that the AP courses and sciences need that extra hybrid time to complete 

labs etc. I am also an advocate for the "year round" school schedule. 

536 I am very worried about keeping the attention of students for an extended amount of time. If the school system were to 

go to one of the schedules which basically has block scheduling, I believe it would be detrimental to our students. 

537 I think that the more time teachers have with their students the more the students can relate to their work. They have 

more time and not feel rushed. By the time class is over its time for another class. With the trimester they have more time 

for the hel they need. I love the idea of Trimester. 

538 My high school (it was private) operated with trimesters and still does 35 years later with huge success. We were able to 

take more of a variety of classes and the change in teachers was good college prep as well as the variety of studies. 

539 I have three children in the county (1 middle and 2 elementary) who will be impacted by these changes. Is it possible for 

students to choose up to 8 periods? I'm not clear why there cannot be a flexible option? Growing up in the northeast we 

had 0 period through 8th period. This was helpful for students who were college bound and allowed students to take both 

AP and Arts curriculum. By using a registration system similar to colleges, students could choose classes available in the 

non-traditional slots (0 and 8th period). Registration was based on seniority. If registration does not fill a class then 

cancel it. This also allows administration to stagger teacher schedules with some opening and some closing rather than 

extending their days. The guidance counselors are likely already creating individual plans for each child so it should be 

easy to identify the students who would benefit from additional periods. I would also think these additional periods would 

be helpful to struggling learners as you could offer skills classes in these periods. It may require increasing enrollments in 

some elective classes depending on the popularity. Class ratios would be an easy sacrifice (in electives) especially if it 

increases college admission. If we put the choice in the hands on the students than you would garner support from both 

ends of the parent spectrum. This would also enable students who only need 6 periods to have oustide jobs, interships 

Aug 22, 2011 9:29 AM 

Aug 22, 2011 9:25 AM 

Aug 22, 2011 9:23 AM 

Aug 22, 2011 9:22 AM 

Aug 22, 2011 9:18 AM



etc. Flexibility would also better meet the needs of kids trying to compete with college prep programs and create a well 

balanced transcript. The biggest downside of the trimester proposal is that people relocating to the area will be more 

inclined to put their children in private schools or they would move to another county. The trimester idea is too complex 

and would create havoc on transfer students. If the intention in the trimester proposal is to keep out of country transfers 

down than this is a brilliant plan. I am certain that the committee has done its homework by benchmarking high schools 

outside of Georgia. I would imagine that the committee has also reviewed admissions criteria with local experts at 

Georgia Tech and Emory and sought their opinions. It would have been helpful to have some of this research presented 

in the powerpoints. I look forward to hearing the results. 

540 All three options are strong and will be a significant improvement on the current system. Aug 22, 2011 9:17 AM 

541 It makes sense to me that having fewer classes at a time allows for more "focus" by the student and teacher. The idea of 

extended time in the classroom that the 3x5 Trimester allows for I believe would be a tremendous benefit for the student 

and teacher as well.. 

542 I like the idea of extended class periods because it give the teachers and students an opportunity to work on different 

types of activities, rather than just lecture style instruction (differentiated instruction). I also think it gives the students time 

to go back and work independently on what they learned (classwork, drop homework) with the teacher right then and 

there for support. We want our kids well rounded and so many of our kids have very busy lives outside of the school day. 

Giving the students the ability to reinforce what they have learned during the day rather than struggle with it at home after 

their extracurriculars, would be a positive. This gives the kids opportunities to build their lives outside of the academic 

arena as well, working to establish balance. I feel the general population would agree that leaving our "jobs" at the office 

is an important part of stress management, I would like our students to be able to know they can do that too. (Minus 

needs for projects, and general studing for test of course) I also like the idea of having only 5 class periods a day. This 

helps promote focus and less stress. Yes, we want them to be able to multi-task and juggle if you will, but we have to 

realize they are "learning" how to do this... I also think changing every trimester would also help spark interest because 

change would occur more often. I guess you can tell I like the 3X5. 

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Aug 22, 2011 9:13 AM 

Aug 22, 2011 9:09 AM 

543 I feel the 3X5 is the best but also the 7 period day is great. The hybrid is not a good idea in my opinion. Aug 22, 2011 9:00 AM 

544 In order to take Spanish 3, Chorus and Technology during my daughter's second year, she willingly took a history course 

over the summer to meet requirements. She is taking her first AP class and she very happy with her schedule, but what if 

she were not able to take that History class over the summer this would not have been possible. By the way, Ms Bonner 

is an amazing counselor. 

545 The 7 Period Day Hybrid seems like it may be confusing for students and teachers. I like the idea of the 3 X 5, but the 7 

Period Day seems like a fine option as well. 

Aug 22, 2011 8:41 AM 

Aug 22, 2011 8:28 AM 

546 If the school day ends up being longer what is this going to do to athletics in this county. There is already problems with Aug 22, 2011 8:15 AM



the buses leaving on time to get to athletic events outside of county for region games and other games of counties that 

are not on these other type schedules. GHSA makes the rules for what time games have to start and end during the 

week so this is a big concern to all parents whose children are involved in athletics. There needs to be a solution to this 

before 

547 My persception is that your focusing on lengthening the day instead of the wasted days in the school year. Let's look at 

the quality of a day versus quantity of days. 

548 I think you already have three of the best reasons to mmove forward 1-no additional cost 2-teachers are already in place 

3- it will benefit our children giving them the credits they will need at the end of high school and entering college. 

549 I think making a student stay in class for a more extended amount of time is detramental to the child. It is hard enough 

with the lengh of time they spend now and the amount of homework my Middle Schooler has now is quite a lot. Staying 

longer in a classroom and with the amount of homework the student has is too much; in my opinion, for them. They need 

"down" time in order to handle the day to day and pier pressures of High school and also at the High school level, College 

acceptance. 

550 The 3x5 schedule make the most since to accommodate all students needs. It is also great to have longer classes so 

students can get learning and practice in at the same time. Teachers should have no problem extending class periods by 

20 minutes (if they are good and dedicated). 

551 For our country to be #1 in other areas, we are lacking in the area of education and it needs to be addressed and 

corrected. A 7 day period is a step in the right direction. 

552 The three by five model would give the most opportunities for different classes. It is important not to extend the school 

day because students also need to take part in extra-curricular activites and still need time for homework, church and 

family. 

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Aug 22, 2011 8:13 AM 

Aug 22, 2011 8:06 AM 

Aug 22, 2011 8:06 AM 

Aug 22, 2011 8:06 AM 

Aug 22, 2011 8:05 AM 

Aug 22, 2011 8:03 AM 

553 1st choice 3x5 Trimester; Second choice 7 Day period schedule; Very much dislike Hybrid schedule Aug 22, 2011 8:02 AM 

554 I think the additional time each period with the trimester option will actually give my child the opportunity to truly 

concentrate on the subject. 

555 The 3x5 trimester schedule seems the most capable of catering to both students who are struggling and students who 

are high achievers academically. This schedule is also similar to a college schedule which may make the transition to 

college a bit easier. 

556 I am not in favor of block scheduling. I have worked in a county where this was implemented and this county is switching 

back to regular classes after 5 years of it because it doesn't work. The teacher have a difficult time keeping the children 

Aug 22, 2011 7:57 AM 

Aug 22, 2011 7:34 AM 

Aug 22, 2011 7:29 AM



involved after about an hour and 15 minutes. The children become restless and they often get confused of where they 

are suppose to be on what day. I am just not in favor of it I have seen it in practice and I did not see the benefits come 

from putting it into practice. I am in favor of a 7 period day. Thank you for the opportunity to give my input. 

557 My son will be a rising 9th grader in school year 2012-2013. He enjoys band and I want him to continue, however, I think 

it is important for our children to be mandanted to take a foreign language. I also think if it means increasing the school 

day, it should be done. I think a minimum of 50 minutes is necessary for each class and even longer if they are afforded 

a small break after 50 minutes. Our children face challenges in their future that most of the parents did not, as a working 

adult they will have jobs that entail them to work 8-10 hours a day, I think as young adults they can handle an increase in 

their school day. 

558 We lived in Florida for one year. The high school my son attended used a 4 block system. He loved it and exceled with 

only 4 classes to keep up with. The classes were 90 mins., which gave him much more time to understand and learn. I 

wished Georgia would do the same, for I noticed a huge improvement. 

559 I am very concerned about the size of our high schools and the number of singletons that are already in the master 

schedule and the conflicts that will increase with fewer slots per day with the 3X5. In my opinion, this will increase the 

number of conflicts and subsequently reduce access to AP classes, extended foreign language classes, specialty classes 

such as ROTC and the fine arts. 

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Aug 22, 2011 6:44 AM 

Aug 22, 2011 6:40 AM 

Aug 22, 2011 6:40 AM 

560 How about a fall break in October? We had this years ago. Aug 22, 2011 6:37 AM 

561 I like the fact that more classes can be taken under the 3x5 schedule. Aug 22, 2011 4:09 AM 

562 Why is there no IB program in Fayette County? Could there not be a magnet IB program placed at one of the highschools 

to meet the needs of our highest achievers? 

Aug 21, 2011 11:50 PM 

563 I would love to see a 4 day week Aug 21, 2011 11:44 PM 

564 we need to have a vocational / technical path for students. I feel we are trying to shape all students to take a college prep 

line, when reality will show some will work in the technical / vocational sector. I know if I was forced to follow a traditional 

college prep road, I would not have made it. I had choosen a technical / vocational avenue and turned out fine. I enjoy 

working in the avaiation industry as a technician and this does not require a four year college. The classes such as metal 

occupations, technical drawing, mechanical drawing, electronics, etc. proved to be more rewarding and benificial than 

any college prep courses would have. I have been doing this for over 20 years and now manage the aircraft 

maintenance, at a major airline. I still took 3 years of math, 1 year foreign lanague, 4 years of english/lit, 2 years history, 

1 year of world geo. etc. a well rounded education. Each of our students have different intrests and need to explore 

these interests in high school. When they graduate high school then is the time to pursue further and specialized 

education. it seems like we are shaping the students to all be the same when in fact they are not. All avenues need to be 

Aug 21, 2011 11:21 PM



available to our students to explore. Lets not change the school day, change the education system to suit where all of 

our students can excell in their areas of intrests. Most people will tell you they wish they could find a good mechanic, 

plumber, etc. Maybe that next good mechanic or plumber is in class right now, and may never realize his/her calling. I 

am telling you qualified people in the technical / vocational feilds are far and few. Lets give our kids a choice in life. We 

have taken this away from them. Change the system not the school day, longer is not the fix, 

565 Having longer classes will better prepare children for college where classes are longer. Being able to focus on few 

subjects at a time will allow for better retention and comprehension. 

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566 My child takes a zero period class. i think they should be let out early if they take this class. With their parents permisition. Aug 21, 2011 10:39 PM 

567 Because of AP classes and foreign language was not able to take any other electives. Each schedule is a grind trying to 

prepare for college, no chorus, drama, arts... 

568 The school day is long enough. Please do not increase the school day (even for 10-15 minutes.) The 3x5 schedule 

works and allows more instruction per day, which hopefully will lead to less time on homework. I will highly likely home 

school my child if the 7th period options are approved. I think it offers little to no benefit for the students. I am also fully 

okay with leaving the schedule the same as it is today. I dont think what you are trying to accomplish is such a dire need 

to change anything. Thanks for letting me give my opinion. 

569 A student will be overwhelmed by a long school day and 7 classes on a daily basis. It is very challenging to study 7 

subjects every day, especially when it is time for mid-term and final examination. A 3x5 Trimester schedule not only 

offers more courses, but also provides ample time for students to study every day. Therefore, they can focus on the 5 

subjects. Meanwhile, teachers have plenty of time to work with students, do lab activities, and prepare for their lessons 

during their longer planning time. Beside, teachers do not have too meet 5-6 classes daily. They can also focus on the 

students in the 4 classes they teach. 

570 As a student myself, teenagers my age are not going to sit through a class period that is and hour and fifteen minutes 

long. It is bad enough now being in a class for fifty minutes,with teachers that only believe in getting out of their desks just 

to lecture us, leaving the rest of the class period for classwork which is finished within fifteen minutes. I noticed that you 

did not have an option for the regular schedule that i believe is working quite efficiently. However, with the choosing of the 

3x5 Trimester Schedule, i still strongly agree with how the regular schedule is working. Would love to continue this 

further. Regards, Marisa Register Whitewater High School Junior Class of 2013. (770) 461-9404. 

Aug 21, 2011 10:32 PM 

Aug 21, 2011 10:22 PM 

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571 We believe much is lost with a long summer vacation. A more balanced year long schedule is a better option. Aug 21, 2011 10:08 PM 

572 I think the 7 per. day would be the easiest adjustment for both the students and teachers. I like the idea of earning more 

credits to be more competitive with other school systems 

Aug 21, 2011 10:02 PM



573 Two of my 3 children have been in fine arts all 4 years (the 3rd planning to, as well), taken at least 4 AP classes and 4 

years of foreign language during their 4 years of HS, and made all A's. But they graduate without taking some courses 

that should get them ready for life beyond high school. I believe they should be able to take courses to 'try out' some 

careers before they head into college. Accounting? Healthcare? There is no room in their high school schedule for them 

to even consider trying a subject to see if that is an area of interest for a future career. Substantial foreign language 

education is required to compete for entry to an upper level school (Ga Tech). Fine Arts is an area that benefits every 

student, regardless of their future career - and also generally does not have a lot of academic stress associated with it, 

which has been a benefit to my children. But it would benefit every student (headed to college) to be able to try out some 

career choices in high school before declaring their career choice for life within the next 2 years after h.s. graduation (by 

declaring a major). FCBOE has already lenghthened the day for high school this academic year. An additional 10-15 

minutes is not much for the trade-off. The middle school students already have 7 periods. There is no adjustment 

required there. True, instructional time would be reduced - but a good teacher is able to address that issue. (A topic for 

discussion for another day is why, at SMHS, are kids making 4.0's and never in the top 10% of their class? That is a 

more important issue than instructional time being reduced. These issues are related - could the classes not be 

challenging enough?) And lastly, the possibility of having more discipline issues should not be an issue, but unfortunately, 

it is a real one. I cannot argue with that. And, I also realize I'm addressing college-bound students, but I believe we 

should direct all students toward that end as our environment is changing. These days, even with a college degree, jobs 

are scarce. I believe having a consistent schedule for an entire academic year is a better option than having blocks of 

time/classes/instruction that change each trimester or week, as with the other 2 options. This is true for consistency 

(math classes are the first thing that come to mind), but also for transient students who move during the academic year. 

Thank you for the opportunity to be heard. Fayette Co. schools are great for Georgia standards, but could be better and I 

for one stand for looking for ways to improve them, and offering my children more education is never a bad thing. 

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574 There are a-lot of classes a student may want to take, but very little time to experience them. Aug 21, 2011 9:57 PM 

575 I feel 7 periods is enough and 7 periods Hybrid Schedule has to much going on. Aug 21, 2011 9:48 PM 

576 The current schedule is ineffective and impedes on student's after school activities/responsibilies given that they are now 

getting home from school after 4 p.m. Why not start school at 8:25 and have 50 minute classes, a 5 minute homeroom 

(after 2nd period) and 5 minutes in between classes. There are too many "breaks" built into the current schedule. 

577 I dislike the "instructional focus" becauses regardless of the intentions behind it, it is impossible for a teacher to provide 

additional help in 20 min 

578 I do not understand why it would not be possible for students to keep the same teachers in core classes from one 

trimester to the next. It seems important that in a class like English or Lab Science, that the students and teachers 

benefit from staying with who they know between two halves of a course. It seems like a scheduling issue, but not an 

impossibility as stated. Do students change teacher in the middle of year long courses in the 6-period day? Continuity 

would make the Hybrid Schedule more attractive, if it can not be worked out in the Trimester Schedule. 

Aug 21, 2011 9:39 PM 

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579 I am very concerned about adding a 7th class period. My 10th grade daughter is already overloaded (2 AP classes) and 

there are very few electives (even the "easy" ones) that wouldn't require extra work. The current system worked for my 

recent grad - she entered a great private university with enough credits from a 6 period day. Please don't make changes 

just to help credit recovery students. They can take classes after school or on the weekend - don't change every 

student's schedule for one type of student. 

580 A full day of AP and gifted classes are very challenging when there does not always appear enough time to teach the 

content to the level it is needed. I often hear from my child the classes are too rushed. 

581 Opportunities to attend the college of my student's chosing is greatly affected by the amount of credits and type of 

courses he/she can receive in high school. The first of our 4 children is now in high school. We would like to remain in 

Fayette county, but may move if the crdetis received will ahmper their college opportunities. 

582 Why is the current high school schedule not offerred as a consideration? It seems you do not want parents input as for a 

6 period day. 

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Aug 21, 2011 9:26 PM 

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583 I really ike the idea of not having every class every day. It gives the student an opprortunity to stagger homework! Aug 21, 2011 8:09 PM 

584 The 6 period day is the best fit for the majority of students. It allows for the maximum period of time in the core classes - 

those that are needed for success in college. Credit recovery should be offered in the summer or after school. The 20 

minute study period that has currently been added could be used for math support. It could also be used to offer other 

electives, perhaps combined with zero period. 

Aug 21, 2011 7:51 PM 

585 Start the school day earlier and also continue to go later. Aug 21, 2011 7:39 PM 

586 ~length of summer and other vacations ~work load (can be very stressful with the current schedule) ~length of school day 

(so there's time for homework, extracurricular activities after school, and a healthy bedtime) 

587 The 3 x 5 schedule would negatively impact band, chorus, and orchestra due to the possibility of not being in the same 

ensemble all 3 tri-mesters. 

588 This schedual 3x5 will help the kids adjust to college life too. This makes the most sense by far. They do not need more 

time in school, we need to maximize the time they already spend. I imagine the teachers don't want an extended day 

either. 

589 The HS students in Fayette County get out entirely too late. These students are involved in sports, jobs, and activities that 

make it impossible for them to get home before 9pm. Getting out at 3:40 in the afternoon is rediculous. They should start 

the earliest so that they can get out and be able to participate in extracurricular activities and still be able to study and 

have a family life. Squeezing in 7 periods would not be such a problem if they were out at 2:40, then they could 

Aug 21, 2011 7:33 PM 

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participate in all kinds of activities, including work. The 20 minutes added to the END of the already long day was an 

outrage. I find it hard to believe that any committee or the County Office is truly in tune to what these students, parents, 

and teachers need/want. My child can't even get out of the parking lot by 4pm now. What planning went into that 

decision? 

590 Increasing class periods to more than 50 minutes loses the attention span of most people. Most college courses are not 

more than an hour long. 

591 We are transferring from a school that offered 8 periods every day. started at 8:15 ended at 3:50 had an hr lunchwhich 

aided in down time to help them relax and enjoy high school. the 8 peridod day also gave more freedom for classes, 

college reequirements and socialization. 7 period day is a breeze and would open up many opportunites for the students. 

There is a big world out there that they can tackle if given the opportunity. 

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592 I do not understand most of your power point presentation and therefore cannot complete this survey. Aug 21, 2011 5:41 PM 

593 I do not understand most of your power point presentation and therefore cannot complete this survey. Aug 21, 2011 5:41 PM 

594 I do not see the need to change from last years 6 periood schedule without any additional study period. Why penalize 

children who work hord and do well in their classes for other children who don't and should take summer school or some 

other way to ge remedial classes. You are penalizing the achievers so the underachievers don't have to make up time 

outside the normal school day. My children work hard because they want to and becasue I encourage it. Why should 

they have to take extra classes and change their schedule to accomodate children who don't spend the time necessary to 

pass a class. Tehy don't all have to get A's. Passing is a "C" an I firmly believe any child who really tries can achive a 

"C" in every class if they apply themselves. As far as additional electives my children have been able to take accelerated 

and AP classes without interfering with their full time band elective and have also been able to take additional electives 

without using the zero period. Don't fix what isn't broken. 

595 Is this change needed to accomodate the increase cultural diversity of our county. We have already lowered our 

academic standards, removed homework as a grade and tried to make everything "equal" to ensure success for our 

students who think education is second to athletics. Is this change really a need to help our students compete in college 

recruitment or just another way of lowering our standards to gaurantee success for the minority students who do not 

value education as a priority of a member of a productive society. Not everyone has a right to go to college, it is 

something that is earned not given. 

596 Offering students with disabilities the oppurtunity to choose their electives is important. With more elective periods in the 

day, there are more choices for them to work on pathways classes (auto, healthcare, etc) that they may otherwise be 

locked out of. 7 period day seems the best option for all students. Honestly, it gets students ready for a longer college 

day or career day. 

Aug 21, 2011 5:32 PM 

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597 I would be open to all year school Aug 21, 2011 5:02 PM 

598 90 minutes for any elective class would be a waste of time. Aug 21, 2011 4:56 PM 

599 I think either the Trimester or 7-period schedule could work. I do worry a bit about keeping up with content in 7 classes, 

especially in taking advantage of AP offerings. We moved here from a district that used the trimeste approach and it 

seemed to work well. 

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600 Request current six-period schedule. Aug 21, 2011 4:41 PM 

601 I have had 3 graduate from Sandy Creek and one still to go. Some have had to give up fine arts or AP classes because of 

schedule conflicts (the higher level classes are offered but at specific time). I addition the need for foreign language for 

college eliminated the options for taking other classes the kids were interested in taking, esp fine arts and vocational 

courses. Basically you can't be a "top level" college prepared student and also do 4 years of art or music or take other 

vocational classes [or you do those and you can't be prepared or able to qualify for top level college and/or scholarships]. 

I fear we are telling the kids indirectly not to be well-rounded or skilled in multiple areas or that certain disciplines are not 

compatible with certain college required careers. Both are errors and a great disservice to our kids. 

602 I feel 75 minute or 90 minute class times will be unproductive. Just keeping a childs attention for 50 minute seem like a 

challenge to me and 90 minutes seems unrealistic. 

603 Has the committee considered a schedule more like the typical college? Some classes Mon-Tue-Wed then others Tue- 

Thur (with longer classes on the ones that only meet twice a week. 

604 For a student entering into the Fayette County system from another system, the 3x5 trimester may allow him/her to not 

lose credits. Secondly, will it affect any rules with GHSA? 

Aug 21, 2011 4:41 PM 

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Aug 21, 2011 3:37 PM 

605 believe that the 3X5 trimester schedule would be most disruptive to Arts programs at the HS level Aug 21, 2011 3:23 PM 

606 We went to school for 2 years in Florida where they had an alternate schedule during the week for different schedules 

during the week Some days only having 3 classes and others having 6 in a shorter time. The students did not get enough 

instructional time for each class and homework was dumped on them. The average student is not always cut out for 

strenous academics or AP and the typical teenage boy ( I have two boys and there are definite differences from girls) 

already struggle with sitting through six periods. I definitely think the 3X5 trimester would work well for the majority of 

students - either average or above average, male or female. 

607 The only down side I see to the 7 period day schedule is that there is not enough planning time for electives teachers. 

Some may not need more, but I know that at least the high school band directors at MHS need more time since they 

teach more band classes than at the other high schools and they also are expected to teach/assist with grade school and 

Aug 21, 2011 3:10 PM 

Aug 21, 2011 3:02 PM



middle school band classes. They will need more help under the 7 period schedule - possibly a secretary would be 

sufficient. 

608 As a parent of four children in the county, I'm always open to ideas that help them be more competitive after high school. 

I like the 3x5 trimester schedule because of the potential to earn more credits. However, of the three recommendations, 

the 7-day schedule is a good fit for the students and teachers. The Hybrid is confusing and unnecessary since it has the 

same outcomes as the 7-day period and achieves the same credits. And although the 7-day period has less credits 

earned than the 3x5, it offers more credits over the current system. My children have not struggled academically thus far 

so I'm not familiar with credit recovery options. 

609 In choosing the 3x5 schedule the child would be offered more choices and opportunities to learn in all areas. The change 

of teachers could be a good thing during the year as a child can benifit from different teaching styles and experiences. I 

have a child who would be taking AP classes and one who sometimes needs some extra tutoring therefore I like the 

opportunity for them to have more credit choices. 

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610 While my kids are in elementary now, thank you for including everyone. Good Luck. Aug 21, 2011 2:20 PM 

611 I would expect the committee to have gathered data from school systems already on these various schedules. Because 

the board is considering this change to make our students more competitive and to provide in school credit recovery (to 

meet NCAA rules), I would expect to see supporting evidence that one of these changes will be beneficial. For example: 

where were students being accepted for college before and after the change in the schedule; did providing in school 

opportunities to retake classes increase graduation rates or did athlete scholarships increase? Before any schedule is 

recommended I would expect to see numbers. 

612 It would be interesting to know "ALL" the details involved in these changes and not just those shared in the power point. 

For example will there be a yearly schedule change, school closings, facility use, personnel use, future hirings, future 

building .... and so on? How will this affect SACS, AYP, and grad requirements? What about standardized testing and 

continuity isssues between classes? Will Language and Lit be seperate classes like the middle school? 

613 We feel 4 yrs of foreign language and AP courses are crucial to our students competitive edge for potential college 

acceptance/scholarships. If the 3x5 Trimester is adopted, he will have to drop an AP or his Advanced Fine Arts class in 

order to meet graduation requirements. This would not be an improvement to his current options. 

614 What is driving this recommendation? Fayette County schools consistently place in the top average SAT scores in the 

state! FCBOE makes our students seem like they are underperforming and unprepared for the competitive college 

environment! My daughter just graduated SMHS 84th in her class of 420 with a 3.85GPA and 4 years of band class. She 

was accepted into UGA with a Zell Scholarship her Freshman year! So again I ask, what is driving this proposal? The 5 

Fayette County band booster presidents and directors say no to the 3x5 or hybrid options. We are directing our booster 

parents in all 5 schools to respond as such. You may use my name in conversation if you need to- Ken Black, President 

Aug 21, 2011 2:18 PM 

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Aug 21, 2011 2:00 PM



of the SMHS Band Boosters and concerned parent of this proposed change. 

615 Think of the future which is the most adaptable? I like both the 3 trimester and the hybrid Aug 21, 2011 1:53 PM 

616 3x5 most resembles the quarter system that was in place when I graduated from Fayette County High School. Fewer 

classes meant you could concentrate more on what you had to learn, and it was much less overwhelming. 7 classes for 

18 long weeks means all the testing falls in the same weeks usually, including science projects, term papers, and final 

exams. This leaves hardly any time for the students to consider anything outside of homework. 

617 My child will major in music in college and is taking honors classes then AP classes. It is imperative for him to be able to 

take music all 4 years and AP classes. The tri-mester schedule does not allow for continuity for the academics or 

electives. 

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618 I do not know. My kids are in lower grades and I do not know a high schooler. Sorry. Aug 21, 2011 12:38 PM 

619 I believe having more time in a class each day will make a huge difference for a student to learn. With a 50 min class the 

students are rushed in and rushed out. Longer classes give the teachers time to teach and students more time to absorb 

the info. After reviewing all info on this subject.....3x5 Trimester is clearly the best way to go. Donna O'Kelly Current 

parent of two students at McIntosh (9th &10th grade) 

620 Either the 7 period day schedule or the 7Period Day Hybrid Schedule would be better than the current sysytem and I 

think more flexible than the trisemester but all wpould be an improvement. All students, especially college prep, need 

four years of foreign language and time for more electives. Our school year as well as hours in school during the day 

should both be longer - look at the more successful European models. 

621 Consistency in schedule - my child does not like many changes so the schedule 7 period Day Hybrid Schedule would not 

work for him. A advantage of the 3X5 Trimester for students, from what I can see, is the fact that the students can focus 

on certain academic contents and receive less homework in a week. I can see more students turning in or doing work 

given. I can see those that do struggle academically being able to concentrate on fewer contents and possibly improving 

their understanding and ability to apply what they are learning. 

622 The 3x5 schedule seems to provide the "biggest bang for the buck" as it allows to increase the number of credits that can 

be achieved at no additional cost for the school system. 

623 Having more than one child I'm sure more than one elective type would be chosen, but unable to be represented on this 

survey 

624 As with the adoption of GPS in math, I have no confidence in the Board's ability to implement the 3x5 schedule. It is well 

known in the community that the Board wants the 3x5 schedule. To be certain, there is a large ground swell forming to 

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oppose this schedule. "If it's not broken, don't fix it". Yes, there are some advantages to adopting a 7 period schedule. I 

understand the arguments. The current schedule has, overall, produced very good results for this district in terms of SAT 

scores, college admission, college scholarship offerings. In short, the current schedule is working when measured by any 

yardstick. If you absolutely can't sit on your hands and keep doing what's working, I certainly hope you'll do the most 

rational thing, which is to change the current schedule as little as possible. Remember the Japanese math roll out? 

Terrible. I expect more of the same here. 

625 The Hybrid schedule would cause more confusion than it would solve problems. Aug 21, 2011 11:00 AM 

626 Strongly recommend Trimester with increased academic class offerings during 2nd trimester to avoid 12 week gap for 

academic classes. 

627 I feel the 3 x 5 Trimester Schedule or the 7 Period Day Schedule are very beneficial. The 7 Period "Hybrid" Schedule, on 

the other hand is ridiculous, especially for younger kids just starting High School. Adjusting to High School is difficult 

enough without the need to assign confusing schedules where the courses vary from day-to-day. 

628 Well when I attended high school.We took seven classes and were able to take extra electives.Extending the classes 

children will begin to get bored in class and begin to lose focus. 

629 I don't think the county has to change HS schedules just to try and accommodate for those that need remediation. Why 

can’t those students get help on their own time before/after school or with tutoring? 

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630 Some of the questions should have allowed more than one answer. Like #5, 7, 9 Aug 21, 2011 9:31 AM 

631 Some colleges are on this same type of 3X5 schedule. The Hybrid and other propsed schedule may be too complex for 

some. I would have like to have seen some statistical research from other systems that are currently on this schedule. 

Analysis of their successes and failures and what mitigations were implemented to improve it. I do think the 3X5 schedule 

would probably be best for everyone as proposed. 

Aug 21, 2011 9:21 AM 

632 While the 3x5 Trimester schedule is our first choice, the 7 day hybrid schedule is also a good option. Aug 21, 2011 9:15 AM 

633 attention span of students during instructional period Aug 21, 2011 8:59 AM 

634 I was surprised that no parents were on the committe. I am very concerned about the potential for "gap-time" in the 

trimester schedule. My son would struggle in math in this type of schedule. My son had a hybrid schedule at his 

previous highschool in another state. He loved the variety, ie not always having math at end of day when he would be 

tired. Also, it allowed for extra labs for science and electives that were 2 credits per year (this was an advanced culinary 

program). 

Aug 21, 2011 8:41 AM



635 75 minutes in class is difficult for children with ADHD! Aug 21, 2011 8:23 AM 

636 I actually like BOTH the 7 Day Hybrid and the 3x5 Schedule. However, I am also concerned not just about the time spent 

in each class. My experience with FCHS Teachers has been horrible. Changing the schedules is not enough, if you don't 

hire and contract with teachers the CARE and are passionate about teaching our children. Until I see THAT level of 

commitment to change and support for our children...I do not believe we will see the level of engagement and success 

our children need to compete academically (for college) and beyond. 

637 When we lived in Tx, we were on semester system. Meaning my daughter came to Ga with 8 hs credits. 2 middle school 

credit= 10 credits. Was very disappointed that Fayette County did not offer this kind of system. Also, loathe the way 

Fayette County does the AP system. Once again, if you had the pre reqs for the class your child was in the class, and 

they offered a lot more ap classes. Once again feel Fayette County is behind the times in education. We have a great 

opportunity to jump to the fore front. 

638 I don't have the expertise to choose which option works best but I would urge the Board of Education to choose the option 

which gives Fayette County students the most competitive and challenging education. People will whine and complain 

about change, but they will get used to it, and our biggest priority should be providing an academically rigorous education 

for the children. 

639 My son is a freshman. He is involved in band, and is taking French. He wishes to apply to Georgia Tech. These are the 

only two electives he will have in order to stay committed to both, and will not have the opportunity, like I did when I was 

in high school (with a 7-period day) to explore other academic pursuits. It is important to have continuity when learning a 

foreign language, and frankly two years is really insufficient. A high school schedule should allow for variety in a student's 

pursuits, and 6 periods is simply not enough to allow for the required courses, fine arts, foreign language, and exploring 

or perhaps even advanced classes. We don't know yet because he is just starting, but we most certainly advocate a 7 

period day. We feel the trimester schedule would introduce too much discontinuity in foreign language and band in order 

to allow for fewer class periods per day. That option does not make much sense to us. You seem to be giving up one 

thing in order to gain another. 

640 the length of the school day should not increase if the quality of the day does not. the key to a quality education is 

satisfied teachers and properly engaged students. 

641 That the 7 Day Schedule or 7 Period Day Hybrid Schedule are both extraordinary options but the Hybrid seems to give 

the children the option to eliminate stress as well as allowing success during their educational years. 

642 My student is at the high end. Would have liked opportunity to begin taking AP classes sophomore year (other then AP 

Statitics). Know colleges look at rigor of classes, they want a student to take the most challenging courses offered. 

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643 We need to stop babying the students. If we expect the USA to stay in the forefront of the world, then we need to stop Aug 20, 2011 8:15 PM



giving into the kids. Push them. Stop teaching to the lowest common denominator. The NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND has 

done nothing but bring down the brightest of all the students. Kids don't need trophies just because they participated. 

The sooner they are taught the realities of life, the better. I had 7 classes when I was growing up and I am still alive. I 

even work for a living. Give them all 7 class periods and provide great advisors. Well, enough rambling. I sincerely hope 

that we go to 7 classes. Why not start at 8 and make all the classes an hour long? 

644 The 7 Period Day Schedule would allow for students to transition from middle school with ease because they are already 

familiar with that type of schedule. 

645 Changing the schedule on kids who are already in highschool makes it more stressful on them. Imagine having a new 

schedule every single day with different teachers. It does not work well at all. It just creates more of a stressful day and 

my child already deals with that with just the 6 period day. I DO NOT want this for my child at all. For my child, who has 

no problems in school, it does not bennefit her. Adding instructional focus time really only benefits the kids who are 

struggling in academic ares. Just because those children are struggling, why does that mean the kids who are not need 

to be put in instructional focus too? My child has never had any scheduling problems and she chooses her classes based 

on her abilities and the classes she knows will benefit her the most. I strongly disagree with this change and I believe that 

the extra stress on the children is not needed. Making this change is not needed. Many kids work extremely hard in 

school and trying to change their schedule during the day will cause confusion. 

646 The high school day should end much earlier to avoid work conflicts and those in extracurriculars. We should adopt the 

Gwinnett Co. schedule. 

647 For high school, starting school at 8:25am and ending at 3:20pm is much perferrable to what we have now. Ending the 

day at 3:40pm does not work well for after school sports and activities. 

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648 It is very important to my family that the high school vacation / breaks days match the middle school and elementary days Aug 20, 2011 7:16 PM 

649 This survey needs the opportunity to select more than one on #14 for preferences of 'more than one child in household' 

preferences. 

650 My child likes to change up once in a while. i think he would enjoy having some long periods on some days and short on 

other days. I like the idea of teachers getting more planning time and students getting more credit opportunities and time 

to enjoy other courses besides all academic courses. 

651 Teachers should not need training to teach longer classes! If class periods are longer, teachers need to allow students 

time to work in class. This will give immediate feedback to the teachers on whether or not students are mastering the 

objectives. What is work study??? If it is a study hall, kids playing sports need to be able to take that class. If work study 

is instructional or off campus work, it's not important to us. 

Aug 20, 2011 6:53 PM 

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652 I understand that this mostly affects high school students, but if changes are made to make the school year a trimester 

schedule then I would like to know how it will affect my children. What will happen with the elementary and middle school 

schedules. You have a plethora of information on what happens to the high school students but fail to recognize the 

schedules of middle school as well as elementary. Will their school year be the same as it is now, will start and end times 

be altered? It seems the Trimester schedule would be the best option for the high school students, but what would 

happen to the younger students? Thanks for your time. 

653 I mya be more difficlut for struggling students to have 7 periods. Lengthening the day would be detrimental to attention 

spans of young adults. It would also interfere with extracirricular activities and family time 

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654 Thank you for giving us the opportunity to give our opinions! Aug 20, 2011 4:49 PM 

655 75 or 90 minute class periods are entirely unacceptable, requiring students to focus beyond reasonable limits and 

teachers to adapt established lesson plans in an impossible fashion. Educational quality based on material previously 

deemed essential would decline due to a sudden change in time allotted to teach our students. The veiled allusion to 12 

week "gaps" in the schedule is an obvious attempt to begin consideration of a year round school calendar which would 

deprive students and families of traditional summer vacation and camp opportunities. The present school calendar is 

superior to any of the 3 options being considered, surely better choices can be formulated, and parents(taxpayers) should 

be given the opportunity to participate in this process!! 

656 My son is only in elementary school so I could not answer all the questions at this time. I do believe that all students are 

different and should have as much variety as possible to choose their own path. 

657 If you keep dummying down the school day then what next? Perhaps if the parents stop buying games and WII the child 

will pass and then take a art or band class. If you really wanted to be diverse why not make Fayette County schools 

Magnet schools. One have a program for arts like Tri CIties, one school be for math and computer science like Mays and 

one for health sciencet ect. Just a thought. When they made Mr. Evans principal at Sandy Creek htat was a looser 

move. His grammer is so poor, I can't belive he is Dr. anything he is a poor example for students. My daughter and her 

friends come home laughing all day hs cant even do the announcements. He can't say school he will say Sandy Creeek 

High Schools I mean REALLY is this the best we can do. it's not about color, I am black it's about education. 

658 I am wondering why block Sceduling has not been discussed. it would be 4 periods a day for a sememster and then a 

new class the next semester. it would allow studnets to get 32 credits during high school. 

659 I would like to see more variety of elective courses offered to students. I would also like to see more vocational/technical 

options for students. 

660 For a 3x5 trimester schedule will potentially push 36 weeks of homework/assignments into a 24 week period. Teachers 

will need to be more selective as to number and length of assignments to avoid overwhelming students. 

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661 Have you considered how the alternative schedules would affect Dual Enrollment Students? I have a student that just 

graduated from McIntosh and he struggled with Math. We spent a large amount of money on tutoring because he 

couldn't take credit recovery and remain in one elective and still meet the graduation requirements. We feel very strongly 

that additional time is required for core classes and availability of shorter elective classes would be a great alternative to 

meet their need for core instruction as well as keep them engaged by allowing them to participate in electives. 

662 The current 6 classes per day can lead to overwhelming home work loads; 7 per day exacerbates this situation. Longer 

class times allow less rushed coverage of topics. Taking a variety of subjects enhances student's critical thinking. 

Trimesters work great - we had trimesters at Ga Tech in the 80's, and loved the schedule. Ideally, though, the BOE 

should adjust their requirements to allow flexibility within the existing 6 period format. 

663 I think the 3x5 schedule is the most flexible, effective choice for allowing students to reach graduation requiments and to 

be compettive for colleges and universities. It is also the best option for allowing credit recovery and elective options for 

students...and I think the structure of the 3x5 would be very beneficial for teachers as well. 

664 I am strongly in favor of high school graduating requirements that would better prepare my children for acceptance to 

college 

665 I am very concerned about the gap period of certain classes, and switching of teachers during the year. As the parent of 

sophomore twins who have never been in the same class together, I have seen tremendous differences in the teaching 

method and style of teachers. A constant switch of core class teachers, math, English, even foreign language, would be 

difficult on students. 

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666 Get rid of the February Winter Break!!! Aug 20, 2011 1:34 PM 

667 Block schedules are way to go. Prior school districts have changed to this. Kids have odd and even days. 4 Classes each 

day. 1 Class meets all days and coordinates with lunch. 3 on odd and 3 other on even hence 7 periods total. Kids excel 

not overworked ea day and retain info more. Why aren't hs on a 7ish to 2pm time schedule to allow sports, jobs, and help 

with younger siblings like most districts?? 

668 No year round school. Continue instruction and coursework beyond end of course state mandated tests. Too much down 

time last month of school year. 

669 What about the college style MWF and TTH classes? Our high school in Texas worked very well on this schedule. This 

schedule gave more flexibility in homework time and a change from everyday routine. 

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670 The easiest for students to adapt to-more like a college schedule of classes. Aug 20, 2011 12:58 PM 

671 The only reason my child did not continue to take guitar was the class was not offered. It had absolutely nothing to do Aug 20, 2011 12:57 PM



with the classes he wanted/needed to take. My child has many opportunities to take the classes he needs/wants without 

adding to his schedule. They tried to start school earlier last year and the bus schedule conflicted with the elementary 

school and my child was late to school every day until they switched back to the normal schedule. You need a plan to fix 

that BEFORE you implement any earlier time starts and Lord know the elementary kids DO NOT need to start ANY 

earlier! If these new schedules are implemented, the IF period needs to be done away with. The IF period ONLY 

benefits the kids that struggle but PUNISHES the kids that exceed. 

672 I DO NOT want any schedule that meet ALL year! The kids need a longer Summer break as it is! The school could save 

major dollars in Air conditioning alone! Seriously! Just cut out all the classes that they watch movies in and all the 

electives with the fluff! Out country in is a crisis and we do not need to worry about anything but the basics! Reading, 

Science and Math and what they need and thats it. We do not need to be in school all year or all day! Most home 

schoolers get done in 3-4 hours. Can we propose a simpler schedule to get what we need and thats it! If you are going to 

cut something let it ne the classes that they sit around and get them out moving around doing some excercise! 

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673 want the teen to not shut down because of too much on them Aug 20, 2011 12:20 PM 

674 Prefer to keep 6 period day like it is now Aug 20, 2011 12:12 PM 

675 I believe the block schedule would work better for high school than middle. Aug 20, 2011 12:00 PM 

676 The Trimester schedule leaves open periods in the year where my child might not have any instruction in a certain 

subject, such as math. Five to six month of not staying current leaves open too much opportunity to fall backwards. Year 

Round school is better than that. I grew up with a 7 period day, and sometimes electives could be 'study hall'. They 

hybrid is too confusing. 

677 If the 7 period day is considered, how would this affect missing school for competition in athletics and fine arts. Travel 

could cost students to miss more than one class period. In the Trimester schedule, how would holidays and semester 

breaks be handled. 

678 My older children attended a seven period schedule in high school in another state and it worked very well - they also 

allowed high achieving students to schedule a class during a lunch period and eat their lunch in the classroom allowing 

for more flexibility in their schedule - they also had a study hall each period for those students who had difficulty with 

school (or if a good student needed to use his lunch because of scheduling conflicts they could also take a study hallthey 

were large study halls in the auditorium or the cafeteria when lunch was not being served overseen by teachers with 

free periods using those periods to do their own work and also be available for questions 

679 Trimester schedule will allow for more additonal academic and elective choices. This type of exposure will be beneficial 

to providing a well rounded educational experience. 

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680 I have 3 children in High School, and all three of them are different learners, however, they all agree on a few things. 

1.The time spent in school can be very long and overwhelming, 2. More instruction and help needed for those who 

struggle and 3. More electives should be available (especially for ones that have to take "help" courses) thank you. 

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681 Leave the schedule alone! It's fine the way it is. Aug 20, 2011 11:16 AM 

682 My son is a home school student and he takes classes like in 3x5 Trimester schedule. It works Great forhim and I love it. I 

really hope for it next year 

683 Keep the schedule the way it is now and expand the zero period option. Quit pushing AP classes on the kids, it only helps 

about 10% of the kids. They have to score a 4 on the test to be considered at colleges. 

684 If a child and parents choose an academic path that includes college, then it should be their responsibility to pursue that 

academic curriculum and not burden the teachers or students with the course requirements that do not benefit all 

students. Most students that do not choose college, way down the system by being forced to take classes that are way 

beyond their scope therefore are stressing the system and are dropping the average grades because they are taking 

classes that they do not care about and they feel will not benefit them in the future. 

685 Colleges usually have longer classes so by having a 75-75 minute class or even longer would prepare them for those 

type classes. 

686 more choices for foreign languages more flexibility in scheduling more choices for electives all teachers should be 

available after school to assist students with questions and provide extra help 

687 We are all for the best public education possible but we really, really DO NOT want any more time added on to the high 

school day!!! We think that it is TOTALLY RIDICULOUS that juniors & seniors are now getting out of school @ 3:40 

p.m.!!! These kids have this very long school day, get out so late, then have to go to work, play varsity sports, attend 

clubs for school, etc. After they finally get home, they are loaded w/homework, b/c school gets harder during these last 2 

yrs. of high school, & that leaves absolutely NO family time or time just to rest!!! My kid is simply SO HUNGRY this yr. 

from the added 20 min. to each school day that he has a headache every single day b/c he cannot eat lunch til 1:05 p.m. 

We are big on family, but time together gets lost as kids grow up. Now, I cannot even pick up my high schooler & my 

middle schooler & have a few mins. in the car together w/both boys to grab dinner b/c both schools get out this yr. @ the 

same time. Change can be good but this change seems to benefit most those who do not achieve. My kids work hard all 

of the time & have earned the right to watch a few min of TV each day. They should not have to stay longer so other who 

may not work can take credit recovery in school. Kids who work hard & get good grades should not have to stay longer 

each day to take electives that they do not need to graduate or that do not count toward the Hope Scholarship when they 

apply to college. We are for whatever schedule DOES NOT add on more time. 

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688 Our children need to be more competitive in the world out there. The Trimester schedule will get them ready for the way Aug 20, 2011 10:22 AM



that many of the classes are structured in college. Studies show that a 90 minute class is not effective for this age group. 

I rather then to focus in 5 classes at the time and do a good job, that studying 7 and learn nothing. It is not necessary to 

increase the hours during school day. It is hard for the students to stay focus, specially for the last period class. Believe 

me, I know. I hope the Trimester schedule pass. Thank you for realizing the need of changing our school schedule to be 

able to prepare our children better for the future. 

689 I want my child to have as many options available to be competitive in college. the 3x5 plan offers the most credits and 

extends the learning time in order to prepare them for longer classes in college 

690 My sun will be a senior next year. He is considiring taking many AP's (AP Lit, AP Calc BC, AP Spanish). He would also 

like to continue being in the Adv Drama II class. With the 3X5, he would have to drop Drama or one of his year long AP's 

to meet his Social Study credit. That is why the 7 period day was my choice. Maybe a 3X6 trimester would be better. 

691 If Fayette County chooses to move to a 7 period day, hard working students may feel overwhelmed by adding another 

class to their day. With a longer school day and more homework given in an additional class, there will be less time to 

complete HW and participate in before/after school activities. It is frustrating for the majority of hard working students to 

be inconvenienced so that those that don't work hard have an opportunity for extra help or to make up classes during the 

school day that they did not put in the effort to pass the first time. 

692 Students should have the opportunity to choose classes based on their interests, rather than always having to meet basic 

graduation requirements. This will allow them to gain experiences that will help them in formulating their goals beyond 

high school. There needs to be more of a balance in high school. 

693 At my older child's UGA orientation, they said the average incoming freshman this year took 5 to 6 AP classes during high 

school. This is currently difficult at MHS if the student is a fine arts student or must take weight training for a sports team. 

This puts MHS students at a significant disadvantage in the acceptance process at top-level colleges. My junior must 

take zero-period this year to meet his academic requirements, which means he leaves for school at 7am and returns 

home at 8pm after sports practice, with 3 hours minimum of homework. Allowing him a 7 period day would let him get 

more sleep, which he needs as a growing teenager. 

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694 The students would have a lighter load of classes which would increase their ability to study and performed proficiently. Aug 20, 2011 9:37 AM 

695 do not lengthen the school day - teachers and students are already struggling with lack of time. by lengthening this year 

by 20 min., it has caused a great deal of stress at home - hard to fit in athletics, supper, church, etc.. 

696 My daughter has always struggled in math and was able to take an additional math support class in 9th grade but had to 

give up an elective because of it. The class helped a great deal and I wished she had the opportunity to take them every 

year but because of the Language requirements, it is not offered abouve a 9th grade level because the students need 

both elective for college credits. 

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697 We moved to Fayette County specifically for the best schools and our taxes reflect that, either make the school system 

better (more competetive) or lower taxes. I think either change for the 3x5 schedule or the 7 day hybrid would be a great 

change, I could only choose one. I deeply wish HS could start earlier alltogether, I understand it's due to bus routes. I just 

wish something could be figured out. However, any change to the HS schedule would be a positive one, making our 

students more enriched as seniors for college. It benefits all students on every level. Fight for this one, it's planned out 

wonderfully with the students futures in mind. Also, the comment on having a different teacher is ridiculous to me, I 

remember HS, vaguely, but I knew of "certain" teachers that weren't aggeressive academically and they were the ones 

everyone wanted, kudos to you for mixing it up with a different teacher to teach the same subject from a different 

"perspective". I think the fact they'll have a different teacher will only challenge them, and I can promise you they will 

respect those teachers in hindsight, I know I did. I LOVE the idea of taking an elective all four years that they love in any 

aspect from band to foreign language, I can remember thinking "if I only had one more year....." Thanks for the 

opportunity to vote. 

698 This is a very good implementation, the college/university requirements are rigid and very competative and students are 

not prepared. I think more AP courses should be available to every and ALL students that want to take advantage of the 

opportunities, and not to a SELECT few. I also think that the process should begin at the Eighth grade level. I think most 

parents would be in agreement with the new schedule. 

699 The academic curriculum needs to focus on core educational competencies (math, science, English, social studies, etc.) 

While extracurricular classes are important and enjoyable for the students, altering the school year to make these 

classes more available (or to reduce the budget by adding less important classes like gym or study hall) is not important. 

This only harms the students. Simply word-smithing this into some political spin does not make your recommendation 

any more valuable. The school board needs to focus only on the children's academics, and success, not oblige children 

who struggle with the ability to opt out of classes, nor should the primary focus be to focus study to masquerade as some 

benefit. 

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700 We would like stay with the 6 period schedule currently being used. Aug 20, 2011 9:10 AM 

701 The hybrid schedule also seems like a good option. However it is important to know which schedule the teachers will 

work best with. Personally I feel like my child would do better with fewer classes and the shorter trimester. That option 

seems to offer more opportunities during the year. 

702 It seems like the 3/5 day would best allow for a student to be competitive in applying for college, especially out of state. It 

seems appalling that a student would have to choose between AP, fine arts, and a foreign language. Especially 

considering these are things that colleges look for. Five classes at a time would offer more time per subject for.deeper 

understanding. It also reduces the number of courses to focus on. 

703 It is extremely important for our students to be competitive with students from other states when applying for college 

admission. Any increase in the opportunity to take electives, in either languages, advanced placement courses, or CTAE 

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will have an important impact on many of the students when they apply to college. Whichever schedule is chosen, please 

be sure it is one that gives our students the best opportunity to take courses that will help them get into the college of 

their choice. 

704 My child is an ESE student planning on going to college. A lot of ESE students with mild disabilities are capable of going 

to college, but find it hard to get the classes in that they need. The trimester schedule would really help those ESE 

students like him who are never given a chance to pick any classes for themselves. Fewer transitions and more 

opportunities to take classes he chooses, including languages, would make a major difference to him. Also, a longer 

class period would allow him to focus more on the subject before switching his focus to something else. I think that 

added focus at the time would make up for the disadvantage of a "gap". 

705 I h ighly recommend this class schedule. It benefits the student the most, while maintaining a consistant plan, 

unconfusing and easily attainable whether a gifted student or a student who will struggle more. The extra class taken can 

even be a class in aid , say for math, or english. It allows the most flexibility with the given the student the best tools to 

learn and compete with other students. I think the goal is more readily obtained through a 7 period day. This is was most 

schools private and public do that acceive the goals. They need to do this for the kids to compete at all universities. 

706 I think they should look at other schools that have been going to school all year around. The students need to be on 

schedule prepare them for the future of jobs. Need to listen to the students and the staff. Be honest. I think they should 

start having foreign languauge in Elementary for the future. Need to work harder in school instead of sports have option in 

High School for sports. To prepare them for the future and work harder. Good luck 

707 Curriculums are planned for semesters. If you go into a trimester setting you will cut the amount of time teachers have to 

teach the information. With this very horrible math curriculum it will be harder. I have taught in many states and witness 

the trimester system fail! 

708 I think giving a high school credit for courses taken in 8th grade such as a language should count. My daughter came 

from Texas where she had 1/2 credit each for health and speech, and 1 credit for Spanish. When she took Spanish II in 

9th grade she was actually further ahead than they were. She actually graduated with 26 credits. 

709 Why is band , orchestra etc considered a class - why not have that available after school just like sports. Not all students 

wish to participate in sports, band, orchestra, chorus - why create time for that during the school day and then add an 

extra class to all other students. This will affect students that are struggling with 6 classes, it will affect all students with 

their GPA scores and qualifying for a HOPE scholarship if one more class is added. HOPE scholarships are very 

important to majority of parents and students and by increasing a student's workload will affect their grades and their 

gualification for HOPE. For those students that are struggling and need extra help currently, help should be avalable 

after school. The student and parents should be held accountable for taking advantage of the extra help opportunities. 

Why penalize everybody else? And sports, band, orchestra, chorus should be EXTRACURRICULAR activities available 

AFTER SCHOOL!!!!! 

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710 Would like to see a trimester sample calendar. Aug 20, 2011 7:54 AM 

711 My daughter graduated from McIntosh last year. During her high school years she attended a school in South Carolina w 

a tri-mester program. Very successful program. 

712 Not really interested in seeing the school day extended but the hybrid option offers students and teachers the most 

flexibility. Real world and college schedules do not stay the same all week so that is something they will be introduced to 

early and will only strengthen their organizational skills. 

713 Strongly support the trimester plan. 5 courses per trimester will allow my 2 special needs children AND my academically 

bright child to focus on fewer subjects more attentively. 

714 Need to start school at 8:00am and get them out at 3:00 or earlier so they can go to after-school jobs, babysit siblings, 

and attend after-school activities! 

715 My opinion is as follows: The school day should NOT be 8 hours in length. It is way too long regardless if it's a 6 or 7 

period day. Kell and Pope have a 7 period day and get it done in 7 hours and 10 minutes. That's perfect. Either keep it 

at a 6 period day with hours like last year 8:40 - 3:20 and add an advisement period (or academic opportunity period) in 

there a few times a week or make it 7 period day with the hours of 8:40 - 3:20 and also add an advisement period in there 

a few times a week for those who need additional help. The trimester and hybrid schedules are just insane. Please look 

at Kell's and Pope's schedules. Do not lengthen class times. You lose the students' attention when they are too long. 

There are many complaints now about the long school day. As stated earlier, 8 hours is way too long regardless of how 

many periods. 

716 From the presentation, I'm gathering electives are becoming more of an importance than acedemic achievement. Shame 

on you. 

717 The Trimester Schedule would be a no go for me. Math and English need to be taught through the whole school year, in 

order to acquire the comprehension and computation skills needed for reading and math, which is extremely important to 

be college ready and to earn a scholarship. The 7 Period Schedule seems overwhelming. Why would a student need an 

extra elective? 6 classes is enough. A student needs to be taught well and taught long enough in order to succeed 

especially in Math and Reading. Spending more time with another elective would take away the precious time for 

comprehension and math skills, which need to be honed in order to get a scholarship and be college ready. (without 

having to take remedial courses in college) Just because a student has 28 as opposed to 24 credit hours, doesn't mean 

he or she is any better at reading and math. 

718 My child is still in middle school, but will be in high school next year. He is in the gifted program and the orchestra. I want 

him to have every possible opportunity. He should not every have to choose between is AP classes and orchestra, both 

are very important it him. 

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719 I think 7 periods is too large of a workload for the kids. I don't think teachers will give less work because there is an extra 

class period. I think 5 longer periods is a much better idea. Thank you! 

720 It's important for the students to earn more credits for college purposes, but its also important that those credits come 

through traditional courses. In order for our students to compete with students from other states they need more 

academic instruction and foreign language than fine arts. We had two children in AP classes graduate Fayette High 

Schools, but found college extremely challenging. Seven classes per day and foreign language as mandatory would 

benefit our students. Fine arts classes are good for students who truly want to pursue careers in those fields, but some 

students use them as "skate" time. 

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721 It seems that other HS in US can do the requirements in a 6.5 hour day. The days are already too long for the students. Aug 19, 2011 11:34 PM 

722 7 period day is the best solution to increasing course options for students without signifcantly increasing cost of 

operations or burden on teachers. A very signficant negative for trimester schedule is the potential for over a half a year 

between progressive study courses like languages and math. Two other negatives for 7 period hybrid is scheduling 

around holidays and it is too complex. 

723 I like the 3 x 5 trimester schedule because it does not lengthen the school day but allows students to obtain the greatest 

number of hours of the three options. As for teachers having to adjust their lesson plans to accommodate a longer period, 

change is something to which we should all be open to and most of the working world must do on a regular basis. 

724 you can't offer a HS curriculum that is not compliant with the State Regent requirements. Kids need to be able to be 

eligible for college without having to spend extra hours outside of typical school environment. 

725 Though my son is not in Sp Ed, those who are will face greater challenges with longer periods and esp. with changes in 

schedule (hybrid). I.F. benefits students with challenges. Should not be forced upon the majority to benefit the minority - 

use elective times. 

726 With the 3X5, even though there is a "gap" of learning, the students will feel more success with only having a few 

"academic" courses if they choose. A lot of courses(7, even 6) in a day does not help a child who has trouble learning 

multiple things at one time. The 3X5 will allow them to focus only on a few academics at a time. 

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727 Parents should also be on this committee Aug 19, 2011 10:47 PM 

728 I do not think Advanced Placement should be an elective. I think if the student excells, and is meeting the grade they 

should be automatically be placed in AP. Thus, if a student excells, but no room for them in AP, they are stuck taking, Art 

or drawing, and wasting a period based upon they have no other choice? Thank You 

Aug 19, 2011 10:37 PM 

729 The 7 period schedule is most consistent with the middle school schedule and would seem to introduce the least change Aug 19, 2011 10:32 PM



to the children. The hybrid schedule seems to be confusing. Perhaps if the hybrid schedule were more like a college 

schedule where the classes with different schedules are on Tuesdays and Thursdays, but are the same on both Tuesday 

and Thursday. The way your hybrid schedule is presented, the kids will have a difficult time remembering which classes 

to attend on the alternate days. 

730 i believe this schedule will keep the students from being overloaded. give more opportunity to have afterschool jobs to 

gain experience. school could look to offer online courses to keep kids involved during the breaks which could allow kids 

to expand on favorite subjects. these couses would be optional so kids could learn but these classes dont impact gpa 

which could get kids to explore subjects they might not explore if it impacts gpa. 

731 Students are preparing for college, where a "full load" is typically 4-5 classes that meet about twice per week, per 

semester. I believe that the 3 x 5 Trimester Schedule not only closely mimics a college experience, but also allows the 

time for earning enough credits to possibly apply towards the college experience, such as in AP classes. 

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732 Why fix what isn't broken? Aug 19, 2011 10:19 PM 

733 The 7 period day allows for the greatest amount of academic/fine arts/foreign language time for my student. Aug 19, 2011 10:19 PM 

734 We need more calabrative Teachers and classes! Aug 19, 2011 10:16 PM 

735 A schedule that allows students the opportunity to be thoroughly prepared for college (their futures) is necessary. Aug 19, 2011 10:05 PM 

736 Why schedule only 4 minutes between classes. Why not 5 and have a more rememberable start and end times to the 

class periods. Students with lockers in busy hallways cannot get to their locker and then make it to the next class on 

time. Is there a huge difference between ending at 3:40 or 3:45? 

737 the question: allow student to keep same schedule/teacher all year can be a positive or negative depending how well the 

teacher gets the message across to the individual student. same schedule all year my be very important to some but 

having the same teacher all year may not be important. This such be separated out. 

738 I dislike the hybrid - primarily due to schedule variations from day to day. Structure and routines are important. Hybrid 

could be very confusing. 

739 All have pros and cons however option 1 or 2 I would prefer over the last. There are not enough options and college prep 

is essential 

740 they need to be more competitive in getting scholarships etc. Thats why some of us moved to fayette county to pay the 

high taxes to get the most benefit for the childrens school. However it seems coweta county schools are offering the 

children more at school than fayette. Also children with consistently high gpa's should be educated on applications into 

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ivy leaque colleges. The last counsellor we had when my daughter graduated was a washoff. child went to community 

college with a 3.9 gpa. the counsellor said she didnt know which site to go for the application 

741 3x5 gives more in-depth lessons and he opportunity for my children to gain as many credits as students from other 

schools. 

742 None meet my child's need. Year round school takes so much away from other interest and travel. Why don't you just 

copy Coweta with block schedule. Inform parents of online course, dual enrollment, etc... Stop wasting money. We have 

done year round school. It is very difficult for families in different schools. 

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743 Not a longer school day or year. Kids are already too much stressed Aug 19, 2011 9:22 PM 

744 I have children in pre-k and 3rd grade (and a 2 yr old) so most of these questions won't be relevant for many years. But 

the 3x5 schedule makes the most sense, followed by the 7 period. 

745 In my opinion the 3 X 5 option is head and shoulders above the rest as the best option for our students. It provides more 

course choices, fewer classes per day which equals less home work requirments per day, fewer exams, a makes for a 

more well rounded marketable student. It also provides an opportunity to expose the students to many areas of interest 

so they have the chance to learn about subjects that normally they would not be exposed to and possibly open up 

choices for their future that are not currently available to them. 

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746 I do not want summer vacation days taken in order to implement a new schedule. Aug 19, 2011 9:15 PM 

747 Give students opportunities to take online courses through Georgia Virtual School and optimize the resources Aug 19, 2011 9:13 PM 

748 We have had 2 children graduate from SCHS and now have a 9th grader and a kindergartener at Burch. Our high school 

child will definitely be going to college and having the opportunity to earn a possible 30 credits in several areas would be 

a huge benefit to him. Fewer classes to focus on at one time, but more opportunity to explore many avenues of interest 

is a NO-Brainer to us!!!! 

749 We need to stay student focus and prepare our students for college. Even though we cannot please all parents, the 

students opportunity to complete their high school education in Fayette County and compete with other students WORLD 

wide is the UPMOST importance. Let us unite for the student sake and do the right thing go to a 7 period schedule, 

please! 

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750 We used to live in South Carolina, where our high school implemented the "block" schedule and it worked well. Aug 19, 2011 8:55 PM 

751 Teachers in Oregon appreciated the extra time to teach. I do not reccomend the blended model because students need 

structure to be consistant and meet expectations. They have to go through a lot of changes during high school lets make 

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it easier for them to find a passion and prepare for college. More choices will allow for more career exploration. PS. 

Bring back shop and mechanics:) Not everyone should go to college they should have another option. 

752 My child is currently attending Fayette Middle, which uses a 7 period day. I feel strongly that this similar schedule would 

work well for high school. There would be minimal transition between middle and high school. 

753 Why did you not consider the block schedule used in Coweta County? Four classes per semester which gives eight 

classes a year. 

754 We would like for our students to continue to have the opportunity to take band, AP classes and a foreign language ALL 

year as it stands now. 

755 Leave the school schedule the way it is with the exception of starting in Sept. after Labor Day instead of August. Keeping 

Band classes is a priority, music is a very important part of having a well rounded student and the growth and 

development of children in music programs. It is vital to us as a family and vital in our community 

756 I think the schedule should stay at a 6 period day like it is now. Instructional Focus should be offered before or after 

school for those students needing help. And any kids that fail a class should have to attend summer school like we did 

years ago. What lesson are you teaching them if it is build into the regular day. 

757 I prefer the number of classes a student takes to be an important variable. If a student does not intend on attending 

college, it doesn't apply. But for those who do, college students typically take 4-6 classes per semester/quarter. The 

trimester is a consistent model. It hopefully allows for more in-depth teachings and learning. 

758 How would the 3x5 Trimester schedule affect college admissions since they would be going to school taking final classes 

immediately prior to Fall college classes? 

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759 My child is currently in 8th grade. Thank you for addressing these needed changes. Aug 19, 2011 8:08 PM 

760 We need to make sure our students are prepared to meet the demands of colleges and universities and also able to 

complete for scholarships, etc. 

761 I went to a college preparatory high school in which we had 7 classes (A - G) and rotated through the classes on a 6period 

day. I think this is definitely a better option than the 7-period hybrid and possibly better than the others as well. I 

know it may be to late to consider this but I'd like to offer it as a suggestion. There will be minimal impact to the teachers 

and would not negatively impact students already struggling with the 6-period schedule. As an example, the first day of 

school is an 'A' day. Students got to their classes A - F in that order. The next day is a 'B' day. Students go to classes B - 

G. The next day, C - A, and so on. if there's homework assigned for a class that doesn't meet that day, it's due 2 days 

later instead of the next day. If gives teachers a chance to teach students at different times of the day also as studies 

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have shown that some students learn better at certain times of the day so this would allow them to learn optimally in all 

classes. 

762 "I have never let my schooling get in the way of my education" - Mark Twain Aug 19, 2011 7:32 PM 

763 You are focusing on the elective rather then the most important core classes that colleges look at. Aug 19, 2011 7:31 PM 

764 1. Please don't extend the school day 2. As a retired teacher, i found that 55 min. was too short and 90 min is to long. 3. 

Fewer classes reduces movement and improves descipline 

765 I think the instructional focus should be only focused on the subjects needing help. That could change on a daily bases. 

The longer school days really interfer with transportation with middle school siblings. 

766 The majority of the teachers do not appear to have the academic expertise to plan and provide valid instruction for 

periods of 90 minutes. There are far too many videos and little rigor in the current courses being taught within the shorter 

time period in the general curricula. This does not hold true for AP classes. 

767 7 Period Day Schedule - year round - 4x7 Schedule with 3 weeks off between quarters---lots of opportunity to take 

needed classes, electives and not too much down time in between to lose previous material taught. I realize this is not 

what's best for staff but it is good for the students academic success. 

768 I prefer the schedule we have now because what"s not broken does not need to be fixed. Our kids spend enough time in 

school as it is. The days do not need to be longer and the summer is already not long enough. Why is the county always 

trying to make changes when we don't need any. I have not heard any parents complaining about the current system 

except that summer is not long enough. You shouldn't try to change something that has worked since I was in school. 

Just leave everything the way it is now. PLEASE! 

769 The fine arts program must stay in school. It helps to keep the students well rounded and allows them to express their 

creativity! 

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770 we should have a fine arts requirement for graduation Aug 19, 2011 7:11 PM 

771 no changes keep 6 periods. Aug 19, 2011 7:06 PM 

772 The hybrid schedule is really the best of both worlds. The one extended period per week allowing specialized instruction 

for each class/elective is genius - plus instructional focus. Sometimes you need a little more time for testing, lab work etc. 

and with this schedule you get it. 

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773 I think it's easy for kids to get overwhelmed so offering only 5 classes gives them the opportunity to really focus on them Aug 19, 2011 7:02 PM



and do well. Additionally, when you get to college, you're taking 3-5 classes that require a lot of focus. Easier transition 

into college possibly. 

774 When you are considering the options please look at top schools in the country (not just GA) and see what kind of 

schedules are working for them. I feel like our county does not investigate what works for top HS in the country. Don't we 

want to learn from other schools that have had success? Don't we want to model our schools after other successful 

school systems? Investigating means going to these top schools and visiting, asking questions and then coming up with 

a well thought out solution! Please listen to the people of Fayette County and not just the board members!! 

775 1) Foreign language instruction is much more effective when it is taught more frequently for shorter periods of time over 

an entire school year. The breaks in a trimester schedule would be horrible for foreign language education for those 

students seeking true fluency. 2) Todays students have a tendency to be more easily distracted and tend to have a 

shorter attention span. Shorter class times with information that is efficiently presented caters to trends in the information 

age that students are already comfortable with. 

776 Less subjects for student to keep up with in a 3 x 5 Trimester Schedule is better while still providing opportunity for a 

greater variety of classes over the entire school year. Both 7 period schedules increase the # of subjects a student is 

having to manage which would be more stressful. 

777 My main concern is with shorting instructional time and requiring teachers to teach more courses. Across Georgia many 

of our students tend to struggle with math/science courses and some even to graduate. I think students would benefit by 

having more time to learn and master a subject. If students are struggling with six classes adding seven courses seem 

counterproductive. Futhermore, reducing instructional time while at the same time adding more course seems like a 

receipe for disaster. Additionally, teachers will be required to learn/adapt new strategies in order to be proficient and 

effective at teaching one additional course. This means there is added cost, training costs, not to mention operating and 

facilties costs due to the longer school day. Lastly, there are potential indirect cost to our students while teachers and 

adminstrators become familiar with the new approach. My overall preference is to foster an environment which allow 

students more time to sharpen and master the talents they all of them possess. If students have time to master a course 

then our system will not have to plan for more time for recovery courses. 

778 We had 7 periods in HS. THis doesn't appear to be that hard of a transition. Also, when we were in HS (1985) we 

started school 30 minutes earlier and got out twenty minutes later. Not sure why the shortened schedule. The kids need 

to be competitive, so the ability to take more AP classes should be the focus, not the electives. 

779 Our family was happy with the school times and schedule which the high school had last year 2009-2010. We do NOT 

like the current longer day. High school students from Starr's Mill do not get home until 4:30 on the bus. If parents pick 

them up, then they get home at 4:15. This time has caused more traffic problems, more waste of gas, and LESS time for 

studying, homework, and extra outside activities and sports. My students has 45 minutes LESS time to participate in 

these activities. We prefer the traditional 6 period day. It has worked very well for 3 of our children. They have been 

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able to graduate with 6 AP classes, fine arts each year, and 4 years of foreign language. This county has provide 

EXCELLENT opportunities for our students. Now, they just need more time at home to complete projects, homework, 

and have time to participate in extra activities. We request that the school day be changed to the time schedule which 

was last school year in which high school students were released before middle school students because they have jobs, 

harder classes, more homework, and volunteer service in the community. If the board would like to TRY a 7 period day, 

then we suggest that it is TESTED in ONE high school with ONLY the upcoming freshmen to see if it is workable before 

forcing this schdule on everyone in the county, especially on the juniors and seniors. A phased in program is more 

accepted that a sweeping change. These students have experienced tooo much change in scheduling, new math 

program, new science requirements. They need a simple routine to continue the excellence and quality of Fayette 

county Schools. We do not need opportunity, we need TIME. 

780 More addtional tutoring for those who are struggling in class Aug 19, 2011 6:35 PM 

781 Background coming from the northeast, 7 periods are the norm, allowing for electives Aug 19, 2011 6:31 PM 

782 Please do not increase the school day or add 7 periods. My child is at school long enough and she does not need more 

homework from 7 classes to take more time away at home. 

783 Students need classes longer than one hour, because as soon as they get to college, they will have longer classes, and 

they need to be prepared for that in high school 

784 Thank you for considering these options. The current antiquated approach to HS scheduling is not conducive for 

developing the 21st century learner. The most viable approach that is the best fit for developing the 21st century learner 

is the 7 period schedule. In addition, this option allows FCBOE the opportunity to offer more Advanced Placement 

courses. Currently, my son will have to wait until 11th grade to take his first AP course. This is a disadvantage. Several 

surrounding districts offer AP to students as early as 9th grade. The 7 period schedule can create this opportunity for 

Fayette County students. Please strongly consider this option. 

785 Overall, there are not enough AP opportunities for students applying to schools out of state at more competitive 

universities. Our child was not able to participate in both vocal & instrumental music because of elective limitations. We 

also do not offer foreign language for students that come into high school with foreign language experience. By the time 

they reach their senior year, AP is the only option. For our child, that meant taking 5 AP classes her senior year or not 

taking a foreign language and taking a class that simply took up space in her schedule. Fayette County's academic 

requirements have not been a challenge for our children. We'd love to see the district hold our kids to a higher standard. 

786 Currently my Son is on the Executive Board, an Ambassador and taking AP courses with no issues. The 7 period day 

schedule seems to be the best option based on the information I viewed. 

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787 My son is a sophomore and this is a very real issue for him. He currently takes Spanish III, AP World History, and Band Aug 19, 2011 6:12 PM



but he is planning to become an engineer and cannot fit any of the engineering electives into his schedule without 

dropping his fine arts class or his foreign language, both of which he excels at. All of the options presented have merit... 

the only option that is a no-go for us is retaining the status quo. 

788 Committe should have included parents. Homework load is currently already almost too much for a child to fit into a 

reasonable day. Adding additional classes will undoubtedly add to homework load. That would be unacceptable. 

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789 Extend the school days even longer so a longer summer could be possible. Aug 19, 2011 6:07 PM 

790 If a change in the length of the school year is also being considered due to budget shortfalls, could we potentially be 

looking at an increase of something more like 60 minutes for the school day if either the 7 period day or 7 period hybrid 

option is implemented? 

791 Considering all the options, the 7 Period Day Schedule provides the greatest gain for the least pain. It would meet our 

children's' needs just fine. 

792 I think more emphasis needs to be put on the core classes rather than electives, because from what I understand 

colleges don't really care much about electives. It seems like you are trying to increase the opportunity to take electives 

rather than focusing on the important core classes. 

793 The school system must be competitive or more competitive than other states for families to relocate and stay in PTC. It 

must have flexibility to increase the number of courses our kids can take as you do not want another big school change in 

the next few years. It must let accelerated kids perform at the top with the right options available so they can get get into 

and get scholarships to top national universities, not just GA/local ones. 

794 Question 18 leaves out the option for keeping the current 6 period schedule--which is the scheudule I would choose. 

Based on question 18 alone, this survey will not give an accurate result as to what the parents actually want for their 

children! Come on FCBOE, stop making surveys that allow you to do only what you want and forgetting about what the 

parents want. We have already been doing that for years with the early August start date. 

795 The Trimester option was my favorite but because my children attend different schools (one goes to private), a different 

schedule would impact our summer travel plans-including mission trips. I've seen how the hybrid works and don't like it. 

So the 7 period day was best option of the three for us. (Talked it over with both kids-more with the child it would impact) 

796 I feel that the school has my children enough time during the day and that adding additional time is just the government 

taking over more of our families lives. On a separate note, my children would have more time to take electives of their 

choice if the county would remove the current math curriculum. I've spent over $1000 on tutoring fees and my children 

have been in math support trying to pass math. They were previously in private schools using the "standard" math that 

we all were taught and they were making A's! 

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797 I think the HS day is long enough already, please do not lengthen. The trimester sched appears more relaxed and allows 

time in each subject for more in depth focus. 

798 We need to stop dancing around the real issue in our school system. Prime importance needs to be placed on the quality 

of teachers. This is completely ignored in preparing our children for college in the Fayette county school system. There 

are several teachers at McIntosh boarding on incompetent. I know because I have had to teach my daughter what should 

have been taught to her in class. It is time to get rid of some of these people and get teachers who want to teach and 

have the ability to teach in the classroom. My son will be starting high school soon and I am already dreading him getting 

certain teachers. I know many people who have to get tutors for their high school children. If these children were properly 

taught there would be no need for tutors. 

799 I think that we need to change the hours for our schools. High school should start earlier then middle school and finally 

elem. This was can participate in work or athletic events without being so late in day. Buses are also getting home later 

and causes problems for everybody! Lets take a look at that! I know when I was in school, H.S started @ 7:30 and out at 

2:30 and many schools in other states still utilize this and find it very strategic for many reasons. I would love for this to 

happen. Much easier on everyone. Also has the older sibling home to watch younger sibling when then get home. I 

would vote for time change! 

800 We are in NEED of more AP class options. With two children currently in college, and one a freshman in high school, we 

have realized that college acceptance is VERY competitive. Fayette County is not preparing students for college. 

801 The school day should not be any longer than it is. Kids need to get out at a decent time and have because they sports 

and other activities to be involved in. I think if students need extra help they should come to school earlier and it not have 

to involve everyone. 

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802 Feel free to contact me if you want more info. dsweetqci@bellsouth.net Aug 19, 2011 5:43 PM 

803 I feel there is no need to change the current schedule. Students who are struggling should take advantage of peer 

tutoring programs, teacher help sessions, or independent tutoring outside of school. 

804 I prefer the Hybrid Schedule. My child will be able to take a drama class and chorus the same semester. She also needs 

to take AP classes. The Hybrid schedule will enhance a competitive student's transcript. I would also prefer if school 

started a little later than 8:25 so that parents, kids, and buses won't have to compete with the Middle school traffic 

schedule. 

805 The 7 course hybrid day would be horrible for my special need child, there is no way I would be able to remember what 

courses he would have that day, let alone him. I was on trimesters for my high school career and it worked out well. 

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806 The fine arts allow students to be creative and for most gives them the confidence to suceed! I have a student that was Aug 19, 2011 5:27 PM



shy and average who completed 4 years of chorus at SCHS. He is now a college student at Florida State University on 

the deans list! He was senior class VP. Had several opportunities for travel, performance, etc. The choral program has 

allowed him to grow and thrive. I don't want this to be taken away from my current high school student. He looks forward 

to this class more than any other. For creative students this is a MUST!!! PLEASE DON'T TAKE AWAY THE ARTS IN 

FAYETTE COUNTY SCHOOLS!!! 

807 Not enough emphasis on the students. Seems to be more about the teachers and FCBOE. Correcting the Math 

curriculum is more important. Current Math teachers do not know how to teach the current curriculum. 

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808 Why change? Aug 19, 2011 5:24 PM 

809 More than 50 minutes in class require the teachers' ability to have very good teaching techniques so kids maintain their 

attention. If we have teachers who can't keep kids interested in what they are teaching for 50 minutes right now, they 

can't succeed in a class that lasts longer! If there are people complaining that summer break is too long and kids are 

forgetting what they had learned in previous year, what happens if we give them a semester without studying some 

material like Math? If we are already struggling with the Integrated Math and add this kind of schedule, we are asking for 

more trouble. How are successful schools in the country handling schedules? I really think we need to research and 

prepare before we jump into something new. We did this with Math program change here and look what is going on... 

810 I was a teacher at a large high school in South Carolina. We had 7 periods, so teachers had 2 planning periods. One 

was used for planning, the other reserved for substituting for other teachers who were sick, etc. The county could save 

money and have more effective substituting; and since teachers didn't have to substitute every day, most days we had 2 

planning periods. I was a science teacher and feel the longer class periods are difficult to manage with high-school-aged 

children...even for Biology labs. 

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811 The current 6-period schedule is perfectly fine. There is no reason to add anymore stress to any students. Aug 19, 2011 5:21 PM 

812 It's a shame FBOE took this long to figure out there was a problem. My son is about to be out of high school now and 

has struggled for four years and still can't catch up. He failed a math class and it all went down hill from there. I certainly 

hope our new superintendent knows what needs to be done. My opinion of our former superintendent isn't worth my time 

to write about. 

813 As a parent of an advanced 7th grader I am happy that this is under consideration. I would strongly recommend that 

once a decision is made that the county focus on providing students/parents in 8th grade with personal guidance on 

choices of HS courses to suit the student and put them in the best position for college acceptance. 

814 I think it is important to look at this issue, kudos for taking it on. My daughter took Zero Period last year in order to have a 

spot for Chorus and Art. This year she is not taking Spanish 4, thus she will only have two years of Foreign Language 

upon entering a College in Georgia. PS Clone Mr. Stockdale Sophomore History Zero Period, his class is one of the best 

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academic classes my daughter has experienced! 

815 Colab Class are very important. If the 7 period day schedule allow the student to get Math Support and reading, writting it 

woudl wonderful. College is important to my son and he works very hard and does not test well. My time with the teacher 

is important. Thank you. 

816 I believe the 3x5 Trimester Schedule is comparable to and better preparation for college. Georgia/Fayette schools must 

be more competitive. 

817 Please go back to real math. There is no happy medium, either bored to tears or flying to fast to actually learn it. It is 

embarrassing and impossible to explain this math if you want to go out of state for college. Struggling kids are falling 

further and further behind. 

818 There needs to be flexiblility for all types of students to be allowed to take different courses. Students may need support 

in one area but could do very well in an AP class in another subject area. There doesn't seem to be many options for 

those types of students. 

819 Due to the continuing changes in the State for graduating and succeeding in today's high schools, I think the 3x5 

schedule gives more emphasis on learning each subject with increased classroom time and a better chance to 

incorporate all the child's needs throughout the year both academically and socially. 

820 The school system has too many unidentified ADHD students, therefore, having long hours on each period will definitely 

disconnect these highly intelligent students that don't qualify as "special". Did the school consider shorter period time? If 

the student falls below "B" or "C", they need to stay in 7th period to revisit the subject. This will encourage students to do 

good at the first place and relieve those students who already got it and don't need to be bored to stay in, in the 

meantime, teachers can spend more time with the students that needs help. 

821 To be competitive for the college market - our children need the extra credit hours to be able to complete the foreign 

language, AP, engineering, etc classes 

822 My son just moved here from out of state. He was in a block school with 4 classes every day on a A/B Schedule. He 

loved it. It gave him time to take electives and increased time for homework. The hybrid schedule is the closest option to 

a block I would recommend that the longer period days be on Mon and Fri not Wed and Thurs. That way your class is 

schedule for Mon-Thurs or Tue-Friday. making it easier to keep up with your schedule. Also, If a student is having 

difficulty in 6 classes a day, I thould think he would take a study hall so that he is not overloaded. 

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823 Please shorter days. Aug 19, 2011 4:57 PM 

824 A child that struggles with school NEEDS a class, an elective that he/she can relax and learn without the extreme Aug 19, 2011 4:57 PM



pressures. Not be "punished" with a full day of strugging and work work work. That beats the self-esteem up. We need 

to spin a positive and let each child flourish in their own way. They need to be given the opportunity. Thank you for 

allowing our input. 

825 I would really like to see the process work for all students. Aug 19, 2011 4:56 PM 

826 The only plan I can support is 7-period (plan 2) option. I have 2 who have graduated and two more in middle school. The 

older two took 4 years of fine arts (the most recent took 2 fine arts her senior year AND French 4!) The 3rd plan is the 

craziest thing I have ever seen proposed and I've been in the classroom for 27 years! 

827 Could we consider block scheduling, where students take 3 classes M, W, F and 4 clases T, Th, similar to how college 

classes are scheduled? I think it is very important that ALL students who desire to do so have the ability to take AP and 

foreign language courses. Often these courses are limited to certain students, and this puts other students at a 

competitive disadvantage. 

828 The 7 Period Day Hybrid Schedule would prepare them for college, not just in obtaining enough credits. It would also 

allow them to prepare for an inconsistent schedule with different class time variation. College courses don't follow a 

traditional 6-7 perios day. Class lengths vary based on curriculum. This high school schedule will prepare them for this 

change. If our students cannot handle one more class period a day for 3 days a week, then where have we failed them 

before they enter high school? Just a thought. 

829 I don't have a child in High School yet. The 7 day options seem OK considering the middle school schedule is similar. 

However, high school should begin to prepare the kids for college and the 3x5 is closer to that. More classes for shorter 

length of time during the day may actually reduce a students ability to focus and understand The 3x5 schedule may 

provide the student time to settle in, focus and even discuss (as long as math, science and english still get year round 

instruction). The 3x5 schedule would take some adjustment for the teacher, but the longer time for them to prepare 

should help. Even if there is an adjustment for ensuring the class curriculum meets the longer periods, there may be a 

benefit for more question and answer time between student and teacher. The disadvantage noted mentions that there 

would be a loss of collaborative time, but I gather with increased preparation time in the day there may be ways of 

working towards that. Finally, if the credit requirements have been increasing over the years, why not adjust now rather 

than have to make another change in 6-8 years after this one? Thanks, 

830 My children came from a school in NYS that had 9 periods a day, including lunch. This also include a gym class as they 

were required to take it throughout their 4 years of high school. This allowed for music classes to be taken without 

impacting other classes. It also allowed for students to take electives in various areas of concentration. Their middle 

school had a rolling block schedule. This meant that the student's schedule changed everyday. The teachers stated that 

they had a harder time adjusting to the schedule than the students did. The students liked the schedule because they 

had a subject only 4 days a week. While change will always come with some resistance, I believe it will be beneficial to 

the students to be able to take more electives. 

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831 ...understand that there are many parents out there whose children have not attended high school yet and so it is very 

difficult to understand what actually is being presented...I am still a bit confused...maybe a public/parent meeting with 

children in middle school could help us to understand ... 

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832 I think the schedule is fine the way it is. Aug 19, 2011 4:43 PM 

833 My child is Deaf/Hard of Hearing and I have a concern for the future that he will need to have less classes throughout the 

day and the opportunity to make-up classes if needed to stay on schedule to graduate. 

834 Since GA now mandates that everyone take driver's ed adding a 7th period, in addition to zero period, may make it 

possible for students to take driver's ed at school. Right now with schedules so tight even if it was offered most students 

don't have a free period to take it. 

835 Focus on the students before the teachers, teachers are definitely important but reading through the ppt the perception 

was that the options were more focused on minimizing teacher work effort vs student benefit, just an observation 

836 I feel the trimester schedule would be the best. My children are still in elementary school, but this will one day be an issue 

for them. The trimester schedule offers many advantages over the other two options in my opinion. - 5 classes instead of 

7 will ease the burden on students who are already struggling - It will give teachers more time for lessons, especially 

those involving labs, debates, and other such participation activities - It will reduce the homework load on students so 

they can put more attention into the five classes they have. I know several high school students who complain of so much 

homework that they can't seem to grasp any of it. - It will also allow students who struggle to have more instruction time, 

while students who excel will get classes of a shorter duration so they can move on to something else - It allows students 

a chance for 30 credits instead of 28 - it keeps the class schedule the same every day of the week; I think the hybrid 

option sounds awful and overwhelming for that reason! Please strongly consider the trimester schedule over the other 

two; I think it will benefit the children the most while still meeting the goals of offering my credit opportunities. 

837 I like the 3x5 trimester if we could insure that a student taking a full credit class (A/B) would be taken in back to back 

trimesters. Having a 12 week gap between the A and B part of the course is concerning. 

838 I hope my child has the opportunity to continue in band as well as take foreign language and AP courses. If not, maybe a 

summer course might be available through FBOE to meet his needs. thanks. 

839 I have two VERY different children at the high school. While one can handle a gap schedule or Hybrid schedule the other 

CANNOT. Already the long breaks we have seem to have been a struggle. Having mentioned the above, the seven 

period day schedule seems to be the most beneficial and fair to everyone involved. 

840 maintain same vacations for grade school, middle school and high school, to put all A and B classes together Math 

A/Math B/ then Health (for trimester schedule) 

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841 A 10 -15 min increase in our child's day is not a significant consideration when the primary goal is to ensure our children 

remain competitive in the future. The 7 day period is a great option for Fayette County which will allow for more flexibility 

and choice in our schools. I am excited about this option for my child and I hope others are as well. 

842 Many colleges offer the trimester system. Summer, Winter and Spring Schedule. Extended time offer students more time 

to interact with teacher and five classes as opposed to seven does not overwhelm the student. 

843 My daughter is currently enrolled in several AP classes. I like the idea of longer class periods. I am a teacher myself, and 

I realize that 50 minutes per class is not much. By the time the students arrive to class and get settled, that 50 minutes 

goes by extremely quick. A longer class period allows for more in-depth studying and more time to answer questions. In 

my opinion, extending to 7 class periods is going to be overwhelming for all students (gifted, struggles, etc.). 

844 Because my son had study skills AND Math support, he was not able to participate in Chorus or Drama for his first two 

years at SMHS. This year we took a chance and he will not have either of those support classes-He is enrolled in 

Spanish and Chorus. we are keeping our fingers crossed that he does well in Math 3 without the support class. 

845 The powerpoint showed bias in commenting about the "research" for just one of the options. The "research" was not 

even properly referenced or cited. If you are going to refer to research, you should have some sort of citation. There is 

research on both sides but the more traditional schedules seem to fit better into the attention span of the typical high 

school student. Remember Drucker's principle, the work extends to fill the time given to complete it. Productivity may 

actually decrease with longer class periods. On the other hand, nothing much can be done in a 20 minute class period. 

Those high schools that have the 20 minute period, it is basically a break and a waste of time for the majority of the 

students. I think the fixed time schedule is better with the same class schedule each day so the students have a chance 

to adjust to a typical working environment. Harder classes need more weeks, not fewer weeks. The brain needs time for 

processing, so a harder course needs more time. Shortening the time to trimesters is a poorly thought out idea. 

846 I think that the 90 minute periods are too long and noone mentioned the lack of focus for the students and the discipline 

problems for teachers with students in a class that long. I think it is a bad idea. Too much information to learn in too short 

of a time span. Also, the varied schedule with classes meeting on different days is bad also. What if a student misses a 

day for being sick? They really miss like two to three classes due to the 90 min. time frame. 

847 High school students are already overwhelmed with 6 classes. Seven classes just adds to this problem. The 3 x 5 seems 

best, with only 5 classes for teachers and students at any one time. 

848 I like the 3x5 because it's only 5 classes a day to prepare for instead of the now 6 and they would get more time with 

each teacher. 

849 I feel strongly that the 7 day schedule would be most beneficial to all students in Fayette County. My son is graduating 

this year and we won't have to worry about that, but I do want what is best for Fayette students. 

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850 I think that it is an insult to not give the option of staying with the current schedule in question #18. You are forcing 

parents to pick a "change." I have had one child graduate from this system and the biggest problem was the school 

scheduling several AP classeds during the same period, and also with the highest ban (Wind Ensemble) class. It should 

be apparent to those making the schedule that it is mostly the same group of kids that take these classes, so why 

schedule conflict to start with. It appears to me that any of your new schedules would hurt the fine arts programs. You 

have already forced them to support themselves, now you want to take away time from them also. In your slide 

presentation, you mentioned a conflict with technical electives and AP classes. This is not an issue with the majority of 

AP students that I have known. The AP students are not usually wanting the easy CTAE classes. One last statement, if 

you have that many students needing credit recovery and support classes, then maybe someone should look at why 

these students got to that point in the first place....elementary and middle school. This system definitely needs some 

changes, but the changing the daily schedule does not solve the problem of inadequate teaching skills and even just the 

availability of AP classes, when you don't even have teachers qualified to teach the subjects. 

851 I have an 8th-grader at RSMS now, and a 2011 graduate of SMHS. My graduate was very involved in fine arts and also 

took AP classes. If he had had more options, he likely would have taken additional AP classes, a weight class or perhaps 

a business class. He graduated with four AP classes to his credit, which we were told by the larger Georgia public 

universities was the minimum for consideration. It would have been nice to have a bigger cushion. I am just concerned 

that the competition will be that much greater when my 8th-grader is applying for college in four years. The more class 

options the better. 

852 Do not change to a 7 Period Day Hybrid schedule, we came from a school system that used it and it does not work well. 

A child after 1 hour loses focus. That is why all military training in the classroom take breaks after 50 minutes, it works. 

The current system works for us. Stop trying to fix what is not broken. 

853 I would like to stay with the 6 period day because in the example of the seven period day/hybrid the student is taking 3 

non-academic courses which is to many. Just because a class is non-academic doesn’t mean it is an easy class. This is 

making the student spend his time doing elective course work instead of using his time for his academic studies or 

studying for his college entrance exams which are most important in the college admission process. If a student is 

struggling in school the last thing he needs is another class to worry about. The gap time in the trimester schedule would 

not benefit the students and is an unacceptable alternative to the schedule we use today and the hybrid schedule is a big 

mess. The student would have to check his schedule several times a day just to know what class he has which will just 

add to his stress. 

854 Thank you for providing the power point presentation. We did not understand the options fully until we looked at the 

power point. One of the reasons that this is so important is that we were told by one out of state college that my older son 

did not have enough lab sciences to fulfull their requirement for college entrance. They made an exception but it was an 

issue. There has to be ways to earn more credit in high school to stay competitive for college entrance. This should be 

the highest priority. Changing the length of the school day or going to a tri-mester schedule is great solution. 

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855 Two children attended Fayette County HS and both have been accepted to schools of their choice with academic 

scholarships. This is without the need for more than 24 credits. They preferred the six period day and so do I. 

856 My child had to perform scheduling acrobatics in order to have both the APs he wanted, and to have Drama in the Spring 

Semester so that he could also participate in the musical. As it is now, he has to miss the One Act Play because of 

scheduling problems. Also, he had to take an online class to meet his 4 science requirements, just to have room for 

everything else that has been jammed in the schedule. 

857 We have had children in the Fayette County school system for the past 18 years. Our two oldest daughters were 

extremely interested and talented in the Fine Arts area - particularly band and chorus. The experience they gained was 

the foundation they needed to continue on a path in the music area. My third daughter is a sophomore and I am very 

concerned that she will not have the same opportunities her sisters had. When my oldest daughters were at SCHS, they 

had the opportunity to represent SCHS and the State at Carnegie Hall in the Georgia combined chorus and bands. They 

also represented the state at the national level in choral competitions. SCHS has a long and honored tradition of fine arts 

excellence - it would be a shame to see this die. 

858 I grew up with a program similar to the proposed 3x5 Trimester and even my college was of the 3x5 model. It allowed me 

more flexiblility and options to experience MORE! 

859 If you add another course slot into the day, they will all sign up for team sports and other non-academic, non-study 

classes. This is NOT what the colleges are looking for. They are already overwhelmed with a 6 period day. PLEASE do 

not add another class because it will not be used wisely. Plus you've already extended the school day, don't do it any 

more. These kids are exhausted already and 7 classes is a larger load than what they would take in college. 

860 Why don't you offer summer school classes for kids who want the extra credits like they do in college. If kids had the 

option of taking government, health, PE, and other half or full credit classed during the summer, it would allow them to 

have other options during the shcool year. It would also allow them to have more credits by the time they graduate. 

861 The 7 period day schedule is the best option for my child, because fine arts is very important to him. He is wanting to 

choose his career based on the fine arts program. He will also need foreign language for him to enter college. With a 6 

period day he would have to drop chorus and drama to meet the requirements for college and high school. A 7 period 

day will be the only option for his future. 

862 Information was not provided on how the 3X5 trimester schedule who affect EOCT and AP tests. Information was not 

provided on how the instructional focus period would be used. 

863 This is a good school system. It works well. Not convinced there is a need for change. I hear from teachers that this 

county just jumps from one fad to another. 

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864 The 6 period day was fine why are are we changing every thing all the time? If my child chooses to stay in chorus and 

take multiple AP the 3X5 trimester will make him have less elective chooses. And the hybrid will confuse everyone with 

what is the schedule today. Over all the 7 period day is the best new plan, but will be bad if school day is extended, 

because more homework less time to do it. My child comes at an average 40 minutes later to home if he rides the bus 

than last year because it takes forever for the buses to get to his high school after taking the middle schoolers home. 

865 The Trimester schedule allows a student fewer classes with more focused intrucional time, increasing productivity and 

mastery in those fewer classes. Keeping the schedule the same every day would lessen stress on both students and 

teachers. 

866 The BOE changed the school times to stop the complaining about traffic- now you want to have the times realign again? 

Not having any issue with the current graduation time frame and requirements- if anything, foreign language is more 

important than chorus or band. Don't approve of adding even more classes to the schedule if you add even more time to 

the schedule. And gaps are not beneficial to any student in the retention of the material. 

867 My daughter struggles with 6 classes per day. 7 would not be good for her. The 3x5 trimester would be perfect. She 

would get to take more electives and the extended time in the core classes would really help her especially in Math and 

Science 

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868 contact other schools who have been in a similar situation for their experience and guidance Aug 18, 2011 2:19 PM 

869 I feel my child would be confused as to what classes they have which day. Especially when they are half asleep in the 

morning getting ready. I like the same classes every day. So its a toss up between the 7 period day or the 3 x 5 

Trimester. 

870 I think 7 day is the best option - hybrid is too confusing and would result in issues for many kids around late to class - not 

prepared - etc... 

871 My only reservation with the trimester schedule for my student would be a POSSIBLE gap time for math or science 

classes and desire for fine arts electives to be year round. If it could be assured that the core classes would remain 

together and fine arts would be year round then i would happily embrace the trimester schedule allowing the opportunity 

for 30 credits to be earned over 4 years. My reservation with hybrid scheduling is the transition of different days causing 

difficulty for students to adjust as well as teachers adjusting their teaching styles and plans to fill the longer timespan on 

only those 2 days per week. 

872 How are the teachers going to be affected in terms of planning and pay? Will they have time to offer assistance before 

and after school and still hvae time for thei own families? 

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873 My child is a senior this year and will not be able to take advantage of the new scheduling opportunities. Because he Aug 18, 2011 12:46 PM



took Math Support, he was not able to take technology or fine arts classes. Math Support was beneficial, but he would 

have benefited from other electives as well. The college that he is applying to requires a year of fine arts. He had to drop 

Math Support as a senior to pick up Chorus this year. 

874 Same schedule every day with two semesters is the best option. They have to be competitive to get into college, 

continuity is impt. 24 hours is not acceptable. 

875 Right now, my child is saying the IF period is a complete waste of time. This schedule has disrupted transportation, 

highschoolers can no longer pickup middle schoolers and buses are late to school. The Whitewater are needs addtional 

resource officers to help with traffic, and I dont mean the ones sitting out there to right tickets 

876 I have two kids, on opposite sides of the bell curve. They have very different learning styles, and different needs. On 

question 18, one would perform best on the hybrid, one better on the 3x5. Is it possible to offer all three schedules, at 

different high schools, for at least the first few years, and have "open" enrollment based on the students' needs (Parents 

responsible for transporting outside neighborhood school)? Please respond to chesschick@live.com 

877 Why weren't parents invited to be on this board? Has the district ever considered an alternate day (day1/day2...) 

schedule with 7 to 8 periods to foster AP, fine arts and other electives and to incorporate special needs...enrichment or 

extra help? The school day is way long enough...it is devoid time for electives for students in AP or foreign language or 

who need help. 7 to 8 shortened periods with alternating days for more than 1 elective...and perhaps AP's having more 

than 1 period on 1 of the days might work and should be cost effective. More electives could be accomplished without 

cost, or could open and provide jobs for the struggling economy...that would be a just expenditure even with our 

struggling school budget. 

878 I believe changing our children's schedule and making them stay in school even longer than now is totally unacceptable. 

They already attend school for over 6 hours a day and then come home with hours of homework. 

879 I think that the 7 Day Schedule works the best and being that my son is already on this schedule at Fayette Middle it 

would give me great comfort in knowing he can transition much easier next year 

880 Least favorite option is the Hybrid schedule. I believe this would create confusion for my student. They have enough to 

remember and coordinate without a confusing weekly schedule. This would be a very difficult schedule for a new 9th 

grader. 

881 It is very important for both teachers and students to have a break. The teachers have several breaks throughout the 

school year which should be revisited such as a week long break for Thanksgiving which should be shortened to three 

days. Also the school year begins too early; the board should look at beginning the school year towards the end of 

August. Eliminating some of the extended breaks during the school year would make a difference. Finally, I like the 

trimester schedule above the others for the simple fact that it does not lengthen the school day and it allowed for more 

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classroom time and an opportunity to change teachers. 

882 When I went to HS in the Northeast we had an 8 period schedule with lunch being one of them. Students need more 

elective options and the time in which to take them. Where are the business classes? Latin should be available in ALL 

the High Schools! Not just Mc. 

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883 Our students need more AP courses and the 7 period day would allow for a more rigorous schedule. Aug 17, 2011 11:02 PM 

884 My child does not need more classes at the same time so that she has more homework to do at the end of the day. 5 

classes at a time is plenty. 

885 what about students who can't take a Foreign language because of core courses. Not only fine arts and vocational 

classes get affected. Look at the number of upper level Foreign language students, they are dropping every year and the 

opportunities for our children to take upper level Foreign languages is diminishing. We need to protect upper level 

Foreign languages and develop and support French and German. I want my children to have the opportunity to take 5 

years of French in high school but they can't right now since NO middle school offer it. It is sad to see this situation and 

the survey does not reflect the fact that there is a need to support Foreign Languages. 

886 I wish you had considered this years ago so that all my children would benefit. As it is, by the time this goes into effect, it 

won't help my family. My daughter still talks about the missed opportunities in high school because of not enough periods 

to take the classes she wanted for college prep. :( 

887 Thank you for considering the impacts that changes to the high school schedule will have. My children do not need to be 

overburdened with additional classes (ie, 7 period day) when 5 classes keep them busy enough--that is why I prefer the 

3X5 schedule. Additionally, with the later start time of high school & now the later end time, I am extremely concerned 

that the new schedule 1) not create any extension to the school day since students already spend enough time in class 

as is it is; 2) that remediation take place as those students elective classes--in other words, please don't add 7 periods or 

a 3X5 & then keep an instructional focus period , which would seem to punish successful students by making their 

academic day even longer; & 3) that any new schedule put in place will take into consideration how later start/end times 

negatively affect after school jobs and extra-curricular activities. In addition to considering what the class schedule looks 

like, please, please consider earlier start & end times for the high school students!! Many top rated school districts (in 

Georgia & out of state) start high school first for these very reasons and enjoy considerable success for their students. 

888 Math instruction needs to be available throughout the year and consistent throughout the year (same teacher as 

possible). I love the idea of electives/ fine arts etc however as we prepare our children for future whether it be college, 

tech school or another vocation, they need 'the basics' such as good math and reading to support whatever endeavors 

they choose. 

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889 My child has many afterschool activities, and she barely has enough time to do her homework especially with the Aug 17, 2011 8:16 PM



extended 20 minutes on the school day. 

890 keep 6 periods. Aug 17, 2011 8:12 PM 

891 The 3x5 schedule seems to best the needs of all learners and with 5 courses per day, it appears that the students can 

better maintain focus. Moreover, with proper instruction students have the opportunity to "learn" more during the course of 

a school year. Thank you! 

892 In the 3x5 sample schedule the math A and math B took up 2/3 of the year. Does that mean that the material now taught 

in the full year is being condensed or "crammed" into 2/3 of the year??? If so, I don't think most students could keep up 

with the faster pace. However, if you actually made the math take a full 3 trimesters like Band, then we wouldn't be able 

to "get ahead" and fit in the additional credits, right??? I don't see how this "works" either way.Based on your adv and 

disadv. the 3x5 looks good, but which classes get condensed and can the students keep up???????! 

893 As mentioned universities outside of the state of Georgia require more than 2 years of a language (sometimes 4 years) 

but it is tough to get into a language class freshman year. Need to addres this. 

894 I don't think we need to add any additional time to the school day. I also believe it is very important to keep the teacher 

and courses consistent. 

895 I have taught the block class scheduling [90 minute classes] after having taught a traditional 6 period class day. My high 

school did the staff development as such and the transition was not as difficult as we anticipated. The students actually 

enjoyed the different teachers every day and the longer class periods and I loved teaching in that type of class period. I 

now teach in a 45 minute class period again and I wish I could go back to the block. Try the trimester!!! 

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896 adding more time on to the school day for my child would result in less time for homework and social interaction. Aug 17, 2011 6:20 PM 

897 The regular seventh period is more beneficial. Does not cost extra, the transition would be easier, there are more 

advantages than with the hybrid, less disadvantages than with the 3*5 trimester schedule and much less confusing than 

with either other schedule, and lastly the same schedule every single day. 

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898 I do not like any of the choices. Aug 17, 2011 5:42 PM 

899 In reference to question #18, I am fine with keeping the 6 period day schedule. Aug 17, 2011 5:40 PM 

900 Maybe the school day should include the Trimester schedule, but instead of having the 75minute classes the classess 

could be shorter & have a study hall in the middle of the school day. This would allow students who need extra help to 

recieve that help, students in sports to have extra study time, & it would be better for those many students with short 

attention spans to be able to grasp all of the information during each instructional period. 

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901 my child says that instructional focus and the extra 20 minutes built into the schedule is a bit excessive and would rather 

have the old schedule back that consisted of no instructional focus and 6 periods. i somewhat believe that the change to 

the school year is for the better but is completely unnecessary. i believe that if a student truly has the motivation to learn 

he/she will make the arrangements with their teachers to create a study session either in the morning or in the afternoon. 

902 We need to have our children be able to establish the most credits possible. Also I feel right now the kids are rushed 

through their day and if they don't understand something, to bad, you better figure it out and catch up. I think a 75 minute 

class time would aid in children having a better understanding of what is going on. 

903 Once you go past 60 minutes per subject, the learning aptitude decreases. Also, difficult for a teacher to fill 1.5 hours. 

That said, between fine arts and foreign language that took up every elective my child had. He could not experience 

additional classes in subjects he liked or interesting electives such as debate and current events to broaden his 

educational experience. 

904 With a 50 minute class period, teachers would need to make sure that tests are adjusted to be completed in this time 

period as opposed to a longer class period. We think a 75 minute class period is too long for both teacher and student 

alike. An additional period would be extremely beneficial to my child and allow her to continue in orchestra as well as take 

AP prerequisite and AP courses. We say a big "yes" to the 7 period day!!! The sooner the better. 

905 My student took the survey and we were severely disappointed at how biased it was towards the 3x5 hybrid. How can 

you expect to get honest feedback when you're pushing them towards one answer? Completely inappropriate. 

906 The school day is already too long so I don't agree with adding additional time to the day. They barely have time to get 

homework done as it is much less participate in extracurricular activities or work. 

907 I am happy with the current 6 period school day, and definitely do not want to see an increase in the length of the school 

day. My older daughter graduated last year, took chorus all 4 years of high school, and was able to take 2 years of a 

foreign language, in addition to other electives that interested her. My younger daughter, who is currently a junior in high 

school, has already taken 2 years of a foreign language, and is also able to take all of the electives that interest her in the 

current 6 period school day. I think that 7 classes per term is too many, unless a student particularly wants to take 7 

classes, in which case they can utilize the zero period option. In reading question 18 on this survey, it appears that the 

current 6 period school day is not even being considered, which I feel is a mistake for the majority of students. 

908 studies have also shown that children/teens who sit in very long classes get overload -tune out. Children/teens are not 

"small adults" with longer attention spans and better able to focus.Changes if necessary should come in small doses 7p 

offers closer to what we have in HS and MS already has 7 p. The entire school should not be put on a scd. bc of some 

students needing credit recov. / remidal Colleges are moving away from remd. classes- our HS do not need to start this. 

High Achv. will always find a way for advacement-mine did and now I have a freshman who will.Ufort. we cannot be 

everything to everybody. I have friends w/kids on block(also goes by other names) and it is a nightmare- most 

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schools/states tried and found it didn't work for kids to have math (for ex) then a gap then pick it up later. Students need 

to have the same teacher 

909 Both of my children have had to take Math Support so when entering 10th grade they only have one elective and then if 

they have to take a language they have none. This does not make a student well rounded. Also there are a lot of stastics 

showing that fine arts and sports enhances a persons ability to do better academically. 

910 In looking at the overall picture, we all have to make choices regarding classes for fun and classes to progress us on to 

college. What is fun for one child (arts) might be different for another (engineering/computers). We simply can not do it 

all. Regarding instructional focus - it should be at the end of the day if at all!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! That allows students to get 

clarification of material learned that day. Also allows for make up quizes/work. It also allows a parent to schedule medical 

appointments which are difficult to get after school without pull out from classroom instruction. Putting it early in the day 

seems silly. In addition, my own son, had instructional focus in the band room and then in the gym. No desks available 

at either location. Really? So, in other words, he's just in a room to play. Perhaps the kids who do not need instructional 

focus could just go home? 

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911 Would students who fail classes be charged for retaking the class? Aug 17, 2011 1:07 PM 

912 I would like to see more electives offered such as computer PROGRAMMING and more pre-engineering type classes. 

Adding the 7th period is only beneficial to my child if the OFFERINGS are there for him to take. My eldest who just left for 

college would have benefitted from some of these classes. 

913 I attended a university with a trimester system, 75 minute classes were to long for college students & will be extremely 

long for high school students & teachers. Students will not stay focused. Keep classes below 60 mins. My student would 

have liked to participate in zero period, but was unable due to transportation. Add 7th period it can cover instructional 

focus, recovery, and AP classes. 

914 We need our students to be able to compete for places in top universities. The current schedule for Fayette County does 

not do this. 

915 Kids who struggle in school as my daughter dies, need extra time to get teachers help. some teachers have hard enough 

time making it to school on time or staying arter to work with kids 

916 My child struggles in school and I have to pay for a tutor because there is no time for her to seek additional help during 

school hours. She has also had a couple of teachers during high school that because of their teaching style/presentation 

caused her to struggle even more which is why having her stay in a class with that teacher any longer in the day will only 

make things worse. She has ADHD but does not want to be singled causing attention to be drawn to her being "different". 

I stopped having meetings with teachers/admin by 8th grade because the IEP's were rarely followed which only created 

more frustration for us because it seemed like the teachers had so many students they couldn't keep up with who had 

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what needs unless it was very obvious you needed lots of help or you were extrememly bright/advanced, something 

needs to be done to help the "average" students because they are falling through the cracks. In addition, for a student 

with ADHD lengthening the school day AND homework just does not work because they CANNOT concentrate that long. 

I am a single mom who works full-time so whatever you add to her schedule affects me as well. Also now she has a parttime 

job to help pay for her car, while it is not many hours extending the day (like this year) pushes the possible arrival 

time she could be at work later which often means she has to work later which again is not what is in her best interest for 

homework, sleep and down time. No Child Left Behind has left behind the "average" student and it seems like FCBOE is 

doing everything they can to do the same. 

917 I really like the idea of the Trimester Schedule. Other counties already use this system, and parents and students I have 

talked with like it. 

918 Thank you for taking on this initiative. We are new to Fayette County and it's clear that you have the best interests of 

students at the forefront of decision making. I have a Senior at McIntosh who had to choose Math support over German 

(which she loves.) I have a sophomore that had to choose foreign language over drama (which she loves.) 

919 I think it is important to offer our students the opportunity to earn the highest amount of credits possible in a variety of 

classes to be competitive the rest of the world. 

920 The students education should be the primary focus. What is best for the students may not be best for the staff. This is a 

community and we should all strive to excel the student. 

921 Let's give our kids the opportunity to take a wider variety of electives and not have to pick and choose between classes 

they are interested in. 

922 The fine arts programs which provide so much educational direction, brain stimulation, and a heathly outlet to so many 

students will be impossible with a 3x5 Trimester. PLEASE don't go to this schedule. PLEASE. 

923 Our family would prefer the current 6 period schedule. I know many students currently taking 4 and 5 AP classes under 

the existing schedule and they will remain competitive against other students at other high schools. To offer more 

classes and a long school day, adds undue stress to our already overscheduled students. They will end up taking 5 and 

6 AP Classes, plus a full load of extracurricular activities. 

924 Sadly, because of the current schedule, my child's high school transcript is not nearly as rigorous as other public high 

schools in other areas of our country. And, my child has to compete against those students for college scholarships and 

admission. Please change the schedule ASAP! 

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High School Schedule Survey - Fayette County Schools

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