Survey gathers parents’ opinions for elementary scheduling

West Madison Elementary School students worked with Android apps with help from Bob Jones High School computer science students. Computer coding is one possible option for Madison fifth- and sixth-graders. (CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON – Parents of elementary students in Madison City Schools can offer their opinions on academic scheduling for the 2015-2016 school year.

Principals in Madison’s seven elementary schools have contacted parents of children in grades 4-6 about revising schedules for fifth- and sixth-graders next fall. The survey lists possible options for exploratory classes.

“It is important to us that we hear from our rising fifth- and sixth-graders to learn more about what courses may be of interest to them, as well as our exiting sixth-graders concerning what options they would have liked to pursue prior to entering middle school,” Dr. Georgina Nelson said. Nelson is principal at Heritage Elementary School.

In completing the one-page survey, parents can select options that they want to see available for their students. Also, a comment box will allow a parent to state their personal views about the classes and schedule.

In the current school year, Liberty and Discovery middle schools implemented a new schedule with more choice in electives, which parents and students have approved heartily.

“In continually striving to better prepare our students for success at the next level, our elementary schools are beginning the process of revamping the schedule to allow them to explore various elective options prior to exiting the elementary school setting,” Nelson said.

This “exploratory schedule” will open more intense and motivating content beyond the academic classes of reading, math, science and social studies. “The exploratory classes will be in addition to academic classes and may be offered in a nine-week rotation, weekly or biweekly,” Nelson said.

A few of these options include keyboarding and computer coding, honor band, chorus, chess, robotics and drama.

After the surveys are compiled, principals will announced results from the poll.

For more information or to make suggestions, call the principal for your neighborhood school. To view a copy of the survey, visit http://goo.gl/forms/bHcPvfcFk5.