Is 7-period day really a good idea?

To the editor:

This year, the Mat-Su Borough School District administration and school board have been conducting an experiment with students.

Students have been subjected to a seven-period day. I understand the budgetary reasons to move to this measure, but do not agree that the addition of one period outweighs the negative impact it has done to students.

There is less time to teach the core material, attain mastery, do work in class (which leads to more work at home), get individualized attention and remediate. In short, the seven-period day has created more stress on teachers and students and reduced the quality of education for students.

The results of a survey clearly demonstrate this experiment is bad practice and should be discontinued. Despite the survey and complaints of students and parents, the administration and school board are advocating to continue the seven-period day next year.

If the idea is really that good, why stop there? Why not a 10-period day? Then students could graduate in 2 1/2 years. Think how much money that would save.

Parents, you have the power to impact a return to sanity. Talk with your children and get their input.

Matt Welk

Chugiak