Changing School Culture

Commit to Action

In rethinking how to approach the study hall period, Neuqua Valley High School in Naperville, Ill., devised the "option period," which allows students to choose between working in a study hall, the library, the computer lab, a writing center, in a common area sitting against their lockers, or conferring with a dean or counselor. The choices "allow students to have freedom" within the confines of the building, say school officials. The option period also fosters independence among students and builds trust between students and staff.

After viewing the video clip describing the option period, analyze who possible stakeholders are needed to make this innovative idea a successful practice. What preparation might both staff and students have needed before the change was implemented?

Source: From Leadership Strategies for Principals, 2007, Alexandria, VA: ASCD.

ASCD Express, Vol. 6, No. 10. Copyright 2011 by ASCD. All rights reserved. Visit www.ascd.org/ascdexpress.