When Plymouth Schools students start the 2015-2016 school year, they will have a little break every Monday morning. The Plymouth School Board voted unanimously to have classes start one hour later each Monday in order for teachers to have time to collaborate lesson plans. Initially, Superintendent Daniel Tyree had suggested the delay on Tuesday mornings, but after both parents and staff were surveyed, it became apparent that the preference was Monday mornings.
Administrators have explained in the past that more time is needed for professional development due to the introduction of Indiana State standards and Common Core.
Tyree did send a letter to parents explaining the proposal. According to Assistant Superintendent Andy Hartley, the return comments were mostly positive.
Although the exact details have not all been finalized, supervision of students has been established. Students in the four elementary schools will be supervised by the existing staff of the provider that holds regular before school care. Students at Riverside Intermediate, Lincoln Junior High and Plymouth High School will be supervised by the regular support staff at each building.
Bus routes will be at the same time on Mondays as that of every other school day.
The cost for day care and supervision is being absorbed by the corporation and parents will not have to pay an extra fee.
Hartley responded to questioning at the June 2 School board meeting. Hartley said students at every building will be supervised and those students who have an IEP (Individual Education Plan) that states a student shall have an aide will be provided with the same services.
Laura Kruyer, co-president of PEA (Plymouth Education Association), said, “The teachers appreciate the opportunity to collaborate. We think there will be more consistency in our lesson plans.”
Carol Anders Correspondent
