With the new schedule for the 1997-98 school year passed and approved by the school board, a mix of viewpoints have risen from the students and staff at FHS. Some loathe it, some love it. But the new schedule has definitely brought out a mix of viewpoints.
The new schedule, passed by the department heads on Dec. 10, provides a seven period day starting at 8:00 a.m. and ending at 3:30 p.m.. The 90-minute block classes have been replaced by two hour double periods.
"I've had mixed reactions," said principal Cathy McDevitt. "So many want to get to seven classes. The new plan will be easier. At the curriculum fair some students said it was such a relief. They won't have problems fitting (classes) in."
The new schedule mandates that every student have seven periods a day, no matter what year a student is or how many credits the student needs to graduate. This has most of the students randomly interviewed by The Arrow unhappy about next year.
"I think it's dumb that I have to take six solids," said junior Jessica Hadley. "I'd like to take about two and use the rest of the time to work or mess around."
"I don't like the new system," said junior Ryan Nyquist. "I don't have a job, but I still want to get out early."
The work release program will also be altered under the new system. Students who want work release next year will have to apply next year.
"Some students want work release and have been misinformed," said McDevitt. "They can apply in the fall. Then they can adjust their schedule."
Despite the increased number of classes, the number of classes a teacher has to teach will stay the same.
"We did a survey based on extrapolating the number of students and new classes," said Flathead math teacher Karen Longhart. "From our results, the high school will need to hire new teachers for next year."
As of now, the decision still has brought out contrasting opinions and viewpoints.
"Nothing has changed except the times," said guidance counselor Kelly Langohr. "(The new schedule) cleans everything up. We still have the real good combination classes. There isn't any 20 minute study hall any more."
"I think (the school board) should have asked all the students in a vote," said sophomore Josh Neuharth. "We have to take the schedule, not the school board."