About one month ago, the Ithaca High School administrative team proposed a new schedule for the upcoming 2022-2023 school year. Rather than offering 8 periods of instructional time, the newly revised schedule consists of 7 periods of classes and a universal lunch. However, many concerns are rising within the student body. 

This shift means that lots of students will be forced to take one less class per day, and the class that is being given up must be an elective. This includes any classes outside the required curriculum, including music classes (band, orchestra, chorus), technology classes, language classes, etc. Not only does the program suffer negative consequences as the number of students taking these classes will decline, but this will also impact the individual students themselves. During a time when students should be able to explore a different variety of subjects, we believe our options should not be taken away. Students were told that a universal lunch system would be created in order to emphasize the importance of a break during the day. Yet, taking away the opportunity to be part of the classes we love and choose to be in will be more devastating. In addition to this, not many zero-period courses are being offered, which even further limits the number of courses a student may take.

As a team, I believe we can bring change. If you agree that IHS should continue to offer students an 8-period schedule, please sign this petition!