What are the benefits of flex periods?
Flex periods have the potential to revolutionize the educational experience by promoting adaptability and personalized learning. High school flex periods provide students with dedicated sessions during the school day to explore their interests, receive targeted support, and engage in activities that fuel their academic growth.
5 ways that high school flex periods help students reach their unique potential:
1. Enhancing academic performance with High School Flex Periods
Flex periods allow students to optimize their learning by allocating time for specific academic needs. Whether it’s completing assignments, seeking extra help from teachers, or engaging in independent study, these periods provide invaluable opportunities to enhance academic performance. With focused time and individualized attention, students can deepen their understanding of subject matter, refine their skills, and boost their overall academic achievements.
Results from a 2021 Winona State University study on K12 students at a central Minnesota high school showed a decrease in overall failure rates due to the implementation of high school flex periods. The report recommended that school leaders should consider establishing a flex period to allow for time during the school day for students to get extra intervention or enrichment as it appears to decrease the failure rate in several high school courses. (The eight courses that had a statistically significant decrease in failure rate were: Algebra 2, American History, Biology, Composition, English 9, Geometry, Spanish 1, and College Spanish.)
2. Promoting personalized learning
One of the key advantages of high school flex periods is the ability to tailor learning experiences to individual students. By offering flexibility in their schedules, high schools can provide students with opportunities to pursue their passions, explore new subjects, or engage in project-based learning. This personalized approach not only fosters a love for learning but also nurtures students’ unique strengths and interests, empowering them to take ownership of their educational journey.
3. Cultivating time management skills
Flex periods also play a vital role in developing essential time management skills among students. By having dedicated time to plan and prioritize their tasks, students learn to manage their schedules effectively. This skill set is invaluable for success in higher education and beyond, equipping students with the ability to balance multiple responsibilities and meet deadlines, setting them up for long-term achievements.
4. Fostering engagement and motivation
A one-size-fits-all approach to learning is outdated and ineffective. Traditional classroom settings can sometimes stifle student engagement and motivation. However, flex periods break away from the conventional structure, allowing students to choose activities that resonate with their interests. Whether it’s participating in extracurricular activities, pursuing hobbies, or engaging in independent research, students are more likely to be motivated when they have the freedom to explore their passions during flex periods. This increased engagement translates into higher levels of motivation and a more positive attitude towards learning.
A report entitled Flex Learning: Funding New Pathways for Student Success from The Mackinac Center for Public Policy indicated that high school flex periods:
represent a bold and innovative plan to give (Michigan) students, and particularly those from economically disadvantaged households and rural regions, more means and opportunity to chart productive and fulfilling paths toward graduation.”
– Ben DeGrow
5. Nurturing holistic development
Flex periods go beyond academics and promote holistic development among students. By dedicating time to physical fitness, mental well-being, and social interactions, high schools can create a well-rounded educational experience. Students can participate in sports, join clubs, practice mindfulness, or engage in community service during flex periods. This comprehensive approach to education fosters a balanced lifestyle and equips students with the necessary skills and qualities for personal growth and success beyond the classroom.
Incorporating flex periods into high schools unlocks a world of possibilities for student success. By providing dedicated time for personalized learning flex periods empower students to thrive academically and beyond. As education continues to evolve, flex periods are emerging as a vital component in equipping students with the skills, knowledge, and mindset necessary for a bright and prosperous future. By embracing adaptability and personalized learning, high schools can ignite student success and redefine the educational landscape for generations to come.
Minga offers a Campus Management Platform that empowers schools to create and customize high school flex periods with effortless ease. With Minga, you’ll have all the tools needed to quickly create flex periods, streamline student registration and attendance, assign rosters to any scheduled activity, and efficiently manage each flex activity. Click here to book a time with a Minga Solutions Expert to learn more.
