Four-period day scrapped for ‘99

by Kathy Domgard

On Oct. 24 the Flathead High administration decided against a four-period day for next year, and now is contemplating bringing back a six-period to FHS.

“It (next year’s schedule) will be similar to something that has been done before,” said Principal Gary Martin. “It might to be a six-period day with some kind of early bird again.”

While the school reverts to the six-period schedule, the administration will spend next year researching and studying possible schedules for the 1999-2000 school year.  The research of various schedules will give administrators a chance for more community input, said Martin, adding that he would like to create a more long-lasting schedule.

“The research will prevent more changes down the road,” said Martin. “Students need more stability in their school.”

Despite all the different possible schedules, the main decision will be made with the students’ best interest in mind, said Martin.

“We want students to be in school learning,” said Martin. “I want the best for the students and there are many good things we can do for them.”

According to school officials, this year’s schedule benefits students who work after school, are involved in various electives or like to get out of school early. These students are asking why the schedule must be changed,  and the answer is money. The seven-period day is too expensive to last another year, according to both Martin and Vice-principal Peter Fusaro.

Said Fusaro: “The expense of this year’s schedulte is one reason why it won’t be run next year.”