This year, Nānākuli High and Intermediate School made a big change: a new bell schedule. After the first quarter, people are still adjusting, and opinions are definitely divided. Some students and teachers think the changes are helpful, while others have some concerns. But everyone agrees that it’s all about trying to make the school better.

The new schedule has three types of days: A, B, and B2. A days are odd periods and B/B2 days are even. Also, on A and B2 days, school gets out at 2:15 p.m. But on B days, students leave early at 1:19 p.m., which lets teachers have meetings. There is also no recess, and teachers now have something called NIT periods for team meetings instead of a floating prep period. Teachers now have their prep period after school on A and B2 days.

The change in the bell schedule was voted by the teachers with over 80% of the teachers, who voted, approving the new bell schedule. The vote on this schedule occurred after numerous meetings, surveys, and research on various bell schedule options.

The goal behind the new schedule was to reduce problems like fighting, which often happened during recess, and to help improve student academic achievement.

What’s Working Well

Some people are really liking parts of the new schedule. One of the biggest pluses? Study hall. Leah Padilla, a science teacher, said, “We can offer study hall at least once a week, sometimes twice, for kids to catch up or do missing work since we didnʻt have that in the past years.” 

There’s also been a positive impact on extracurricular activities. Padilla added that it’s been easier to plan student council activities, especially during Homecoming season.

Freshman Chloe Saturnio, did not have any big issues with the changes. “I never had recess, so I’m not really complaining,” she said. Saturnio did suggest that longer passing periods would be a good idea, especially for students who need to walk across campus between classes.

According to Robin Kitsu, Student Activities Coordinator, it seems like there have been less fights. “Students have not had as many opportunities to get into fights without recess.”

What’s Challenging

But not everyone is thrilled with the new setup. One of the main problems is the short passing periods. 

Bailey K. Kahue-Hoff, a freshman, said, “There’s not enough time for people to get anywhere.” This is especially tough for students who have to walk from one part of the campus to another and go to the restroom before the next class since there is no recess.

Teachers are also feeling the pressure. Social Studies teacher, Cheryl Irebaria, said she misses having a small break during the day: “I miss the recess in between the first and second periods because it gave teachers a moment to decompress and get ready for the next class.” 

Some students are also finding the rotating schedule confusing. Freshman Tabitha Palmer said, “Sometimes I can’t even remember what day it is—A, B, or B2. It’s kind of overwhelming. But I do like the odd and even days”

Keola Mahoe, a senior, said that the advisory after lunch was good, as it seems students are attending the advisory. But he also had concerns about Study Hall. “For students who need help, its good, but for those who are caught up with their work, there is not much for them to do.”

What Could Be Improved

A lot of people have ideas for how the schedule could be tweaked. For starters, many students agree that passing periods need to be longer as itʻs hard for students to get from one part of campus to the other in the short time allowed especially if they want to use the restroom before going to class.

Another suggestion? Bringing back at least a small break. Monica Yasuda, the Early College coordinator, said, “I miss first recess. I would really appreciate having it back.” Even just a little break would give students and teachers time to recharge during the day.

Final Thoughts

So, what’s the verdict on the new schedule? It depends on who you ask. Some people appreciate the added study hall time and the reduction in fights. Others are feeling the impact of short passing periods and missing the breaks they used to have. 

The school Leadership wants to give the new bell schedule a chance before making any changes. As the school year continues, the Leadership will continue to gather data and feedback to determine if the new schedule is achieving its intended goals.