Using Academic Lab and Bengal Skills/Prep Classes Differently

Given the struggles and realities of learning through a pandemic nation and worldwide, here at SBPS we, too, are seeing a need for students to have more opportunities to review and build on previously learned skills. As such, we have been looking for creative ways to increase student learning in reading, writing, and math.

• As we transition out of the "covid school years" and return to a more normal school day, we are consciously looking at our curriculum and how we optimize our day to provide the best experience for student learning.

• Some things were introduced during covid, such as study hall days in Bengal Prep and Skills, because it met the needs of the time. Since our pandemic realities are no longer the same, we are working to increase rigor across the board while also giving students more opportunities to build time management skills at home, via homework. Last week, I shared more regarding this in the Buzz.

• Academic Lab on Monday has transitioned to Math Lab. During this time, homeroom teachers will be leading students in different math skill building activities. This is very similar to how Tuesday and Thursday Academic Lab transitioned to Literature Workshop a few years ago.

• Bengal Prep and Skills has transitioned the study hall day each week to a skill building day for reading, writing, and math. This will provide students with opportunities to review and continue mastering important foundational skills.

• As a middle school team, we are excited about these new initiatives and look forward to continuing to best support students in their academic growth. We thank parents for supporting these efforts to help each child reach his/her potential.