We didn't send any of our kids in for SOL testing that year. Fast forward to a few weeks ago. We got a message from CHS asking that we send our graduating Senior in to take the Algebra I SOL for participation purposes. 🤣

My son took Algebra I in 8th grade and didn't take the SOL. It was during covid and he was taking it virtually. It was a disaster. He had an IEP but we got no support and the only reason he passed the class was because I re-learned algebra and worked with him every day.

You can say no. Kids only have to take SOLs in high school in order to graduate.

I just saw this. So angry

Yep. Super annoying. I get them almost every day now that I have kids taking AP tests, going on field trips, attending track meets, or arriving "late" due to the CHS testing schedule.

I understand. And I agree, we don't know if they're proposing it at all. I just hate last minute changes and am frustrated with CHS administration for several reasons already. Don't really want to add another! 🙂

Kids have always chosen backups, yes. But a counselor specifically mentioned this schedule possibility to a student.

If it's designed well I could see some benefits. But CHS has an exceptional performing arts program & I see no way for that to continue unless those classes are offered as year-long classes. CHS also offers many AP classes and might not be able to offer as many with this schedule.

I hear you. Yes, it could be beneficial in some ways for some students. But I have little confidence that CHS can pull it off for next year and I would appreciate the school having a conversation with families about this idea before telling kids to pick an extra class for next year, just in case

It wouldn't work at all for performing arts though, unless they made those year-long. How does that work for AP classes when tests are in the spring? And how would it work for language classes so there's no gap between levels?

My sophomore hasn't even seen her guidance counselor yet, has been told she won't get her turn until the end of March. But they're apparently meeting with rising 9th graders next week.

I don't know. I've only heard about this idea second hand from another parent. I have a lot of questions (and opinions!)

Kids can also earn highschool credits in middle school

Typically kids have 7 classes every year, 8 if they take an early morning class or online class

8 classes a year seems like too much anyway. My kids already have way more credits than they need!

I'm not sure how that idea works for music classes, language classes and AP classes. Seems like a terrible idea

I've heard that it's possible CHS is considering block scheduling for the future (next year?). Different options include the possibility of a 4x4 schedule where students take 4 classes each day in longer blocks for 1 semester, then switch classes for 2nd semester.