The new Penfield Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction in the Penfield Central School District has been proposing drastic changes to building schedules.  In the first draft of the schedule, she moved the elementary school ensembles to the morning. Thankfully, because of the dedicated and concerned parents in the district, this change will not occur next year.

At the most recent school board meeting, Dr. Maloney proposed that students should have more "flex" time (i.e. study hall) every day. In order to facilitate this change, she has proposed that general music no longer be a required class in 8th grade. This change would prevent any student in a music ensemble from taking elective courses in Art, Business, Tech, and Home Ec. Because of this, students will have to choose between classes, instead of being required to take a music class.

Music classes are safe spaces for students and make them feel welcome. It is vital for students to have a class where they feel comfortable and that does not give them stress. It has been proven that music stimulates the parts of the brain associated with academic achievement, such as reading and math, AND emotional development. Studies have also shown that most people who enjoy music are also likely to enjoy art. This makes it a tough decision for students who would like to do both.

Dr. Maloney has also proposed cutting back on the passing period by one minute. With traffic from students and multiple staircases going up and down, it would be harder for students to get to class on time.

She has also proposed changes to lunch that would have profound impacts. Lunch is a time for students to socialize, and district leaders have stressed the need for social emotional learning. By denying students a chance to socialize, you are denying students a chance to grow. Lunch lines are also extremely long and this change would leave students rushing to shove food in their mouths.

Penfield students are EXHAUSTED by the constant changes of the past 3 years. The conversation around schedule changes district-wide is exhausting for students. We understand that district leaders are trying to “improve” the student's learning experiences here in Penfield. But these changes are drastic and rushed. We are asking the school board to please delay the implementation of these changes for the good of the student body.