The transition to e-learning posed a challenge for University High School of Indiana, where faculty-student connection is our hallmark. Synchronous e-learning (classes meeting in real-time via Zoom) allowed us to preserve the engagement of classes in a digital arena. However, we recognized that students would burn out if we asked them to follow our regular schedule while in e-learning.

So we designed a new one. There are four hour blocks each day, with fifteen-minute passing periods and classes meeting on alternate days. With a seven-class schedule, the eighth block allows online office hours. We’ve preserved 70% of our contact minutes, and students are almost universal in saying they are pleased with and can sustain this schedule. Details are in the attached PDF.