School administrators across Anne Arundel County Public Schools have decided to change the schedule for high schools, removing what was known at schools around the county by many names (Panther Hour, Bruin Block, Nest, Bulldog Block, etc.), this time was used by students to visit teachers for extra help, attend clubs, relax, spend time with friends, and eat their lunch. The Board of Education has enacted a new schedule that removes this free block in favor of 30 minutes 3 times a week where students can attend clubs.

The AACPS Board of Education offered high schools two options. One reminiscent of the free blocks returning students and alum remember, and another that has one 30-minute block than can be used for clubs and academic support three times a week. This second option is the one that has been chosen.

This affects all students across the county, but it will seriously impact the lives of students with IEPs (Individualized Education Plans). Many students with IEPs are given extra time on exams, and this extra time frequently took place during this free block. While these students have not lost the ability to use their extra time, they have lost one of the best times to use it. Free Block awarded students a time to use their extra time without missing more instruction as the rest of the class moves on. All students need free block, especially students with IEPs.

Please sign this petition so that we can bring Panther Hour, Bruin Block, Nest, Bulldog Block, Falcon Hour, and so much more back to schools across Anne Arundel County.

Thank You