Parents of OJH Students,
Due to students’ requests for schedule changes, it has become necessary to make a few adjustments in order to accommodate and properly, effectively, and safely instruct students.
We are making these changes with the best interests of the students in mind. It is always best practice to have a lower student to teacher ratio as it helps to provide the time and space for specialized instruction as well as safety for our students. We are excited for the opportunities they will have to explore different classes and hopefully, find a new interest or hobby that they can enjoy throughout life!
Effective the second semester, January 14th, the following changes will be taking place regarding classes in the Middle School. However due to recent weather delays to school the changes won’t take place until January 17th when we return back to school.
During 4 hour, the 6th and 7th grade Intro to Drawing Class will be split into two groups; Maroon and Gold. These groups will alternate between the Intro to Drawing class as well as a Typing and Technology Class. For example, the Maroon group will have Intro to Drawing M,W,F, while the Gold group has Typing and Technology. They will be alternating each week, so one week they will have 2 art and 3 typing classes but the next week they will have 3 art and 2 typing classes.
Our 7th Hour PE class is also experiencing a large number of students and they will follow a similar schedule as mentioned above. *The 6th grade will stay in PE with Mr. Blair. 7th and 8th graders will be split into two groups; Maroon and Gold. These students will alternate as described above, but between PE and Intro to Industrial Technology. They will alternate days equaling 3 days PE, 2 days Id Tech, then the next week 2 days PE and 3 days Id Tech.
These changes will allow teachers and students to experience smaller class sizes which increases engagement, collaboration, and communication. While we understand there might be some concerns, not only is this in the best interest of the students, but it allows for more meaningful and productive class time, where there is more of a focus on the tasks and subjects, rather than teachers having to spend time redirecting and managing.
We are looking at this change as an opportunity to broaden and deepen knowledge, skills, and experiences as students will essentially get two classes for the price of one!
*Please note that these classes during 4th and 7th hour are FULL and no other students will be allowed to transfer into these courses.
**These schedule changes are considered final- the alternating schedule is not optional and will be applied to all enrolled in the above mentioned classes.
Mr. Wilson and Mrs. Blair