The reason I am writing today is to make you aware of the continuing work of our curriculum Redesign Task Force.  An important component to the continued success of Hill-Murray revolves around maintaining a strong focus on academics while establishing ourselves as an innovative and proactive leader in Catholic education. 

The Redesign Task Force has been charged with developing an educational model that builds on our traditional strengths while preparing our students to be moral leaders in the 21^st century.  The goal was to develop a model that maintains our current academic strengths, ensures the rigor and depth of the curriculum as well as improves the delivery of instruction.  The model also needed to address full year religion for grades 9-12, provide flexibility and provide collaborative opportunities for instructional staff and students.  The Task Force began an analysis of our current schedule and brainstormed ways to reach those goals.  This past semester, a draft of a new schedule was presented to the Board of Trustees, staff, the Student Advisory Council and the Parent Advisory Council.  After much feedback and discussion we decided on a slight change for 2012-13 -- eight periods including a full period for lunch.  Instead of 25 minutes to eat and rush to another class, students will now have 49 minutes allowing for some study time, the chance to see a counselor or visit with a particular teacher or other academic resource.  While the day will end a few minutes later than our current schedule, we feel the lengthened lunch will be very beneficial.  The timing of this announcement coincides with our registration process and provides students the opportunity to make informed choices. 

I want to assure you the rigorous curriculum we are known for remains.  I will outline future concepts through further communications and informational sessions this spring.  We want to be very thoughtful and deliberate in the redesign process.  The implementation of any changes will be step-by-step with a phased-in approach.  As always, feel free to contact me should you have questions or concerns.

Sincerely,                                                           

David Meyer                                                       

Period 1       7:30-8:21*                                   Period 5           11:04-11:53

Period 2       8:25-9:14                                     Period 6           11:57-12:46

Period 3       9:18-10:07                                  Period 7           12:50-1:39

Period 4       10:11-11:00                               Period 8           1:43-2:32

*Note that period one includes prayer and morning announcements.

Options under consideration:

Period 9                                   2:45-3:34    
                         
Mondays only                              5:30-8:30 p.m.