After a semester of varying schedules, many Liberty students and parents were relieved

to hear that the eight-period days on Mondays and Tuesdays were being switched to four-period block days. This change was implemented on February 1, 2021.

“It became pretty clear that Mondays and Tuesdays were really rough. Running through eight different classes in one day was challenging for both students and teachers,” Principal Sean Martin said.

Students and parents have expressed various opinions on the new schedule. Some believe that the block schedule is less engaging for students, and a common concern regarding the block schedule is whether sitting at the computer without break for longer periods of time is healthy for students.

On the other hand, many argue it provides consistency and a less hectic environment in comparison to the previous eight-period schedule.

“I think both teachers and students can focus better with longer periods. Class is more enjoyable, and there is more time to work on classwork,” sophomore, Leo Fan said. “However, sitting for over seven hours, including class and homework, is much more exhausting than the normal, in-person school day.”

Martin expressed that the biggest factor pertaining to the shift in schedules was the feedback from students, parents, and staff.

On a rather different note, Liberty students should expect yet another shift in their newly

adjusted schedules. Recently, the Issaquah School Board approved Superintendent Ron Thiele’s recommendation to implement a seven-period schedule for all high schools in the district. Liberty is expected to follow their lead and move away from the current eight-period schedule in the fall of 2022.

“The two main objectives that led to the idea of a seven-period schedule being

implemented were maximizing learning for each of the classes and providing consistency across the Issaquah School District,” Martin said.

Regarding the changes that the seven-period schedule will bring to Liberty, graduation

requirements have already been adjusted by dropping multiple semester credits over the past few years.

“This is unlike any other school year you’ve had in your career so far, or hopefully

ever will again.” Martin said. “We had to consider what was the best thing we can do to make sure that all of you get the classes that you need and the learning that you need in a manageable way.”