Want a flex time but don’t know how to get started?
This article gives an overview of how to implement a flex block, including what it is used for, how to make time for it, and how to start one in your school.
What is a flex block?
Flex blocks have been gaining popularity in schools across the country. While the specifics of how they are implemented differ from school to school, the essential function is the same: it is a time that can be personalized to student needs.
A flex block is a dedicated time when students spend time personaized to their needs. This could be intervention, enrichment, SEL time, or focused studying. The key is that each student will need something different and the flex block is a time when they can get what they need. It could be offered daily or a few times a week, with students moving in and out of offerings based on their needs.
What does a flex block help with?
A flex block gives students and teachers time to focus on what the student needs. For many students, it is academic intervention. That could be on a consistent long-term basis or could be targeted for a specific standard. Many students benefit from enrichment time to learn more about topics that interest them.
As schools offer more social and emotional learning programs, a flex block can be a time to discuss these topics in small groups.
How do I make time for a flex block?
There are many ways to make time for flex. With a few adjustments to your existing bell schedule, you may be able to create time for a flex block. Many flex blocks are between 20-35 minutes long. Some schools have shortened passing time or taken a few minutes off of scheduled classes to be able to make time for their flex block.
What would be offered during the flex block?
There is no limit to what can be offered during flex! An easy way to launch the flex block is to have each academic teacher hold an open flex time. Students can sign up to be with one of their academic teachers for extra help. Teachers can also pull in students who they know will need focused time.
Some schools have specialized offerings, such as assemblies, guidance appointments, club meetings and enrichment opportunities. Those offerings can be added in at any time and are not necessary to get started with your flex block.
What do I look for in a tool?
Many schools use a flexible scheduling tool to manage the administration of their flex block. Having a tool gives administrators the visibility into the efficacy of the flex block. It allows students and teachers to manage their own schedules, and to always know where they are supposed to be.
There are a few things to look for in a tool. Often when we evaluate new software tools, we focus on the features. Features are important, but there are also some behind-the-scenes things to consider to make your life a lot easier.
1. Data Integration
The first thing to consider is whether the flex scheduler will integrate with your SIS. It is critical that both systems have real time data so that teachers see the same data in both systems. For example, student and teacher lists need to be accurate in the flex scheduler. Teachers should see the Daily Attendance for their students, as well as their SIS class rosters and student’s current grades in all their academic classes. Newly enrolled students should appear in the flex scheduler quickly so that they can be scheduled for their flex block.
Data from the flex scheduler should also be sent back to the SIS. It is ideal for SIS users to be able to see where the student is scheduled for their flex block.
2. Configuration
Will the flex scheduler be able to configure your unique schedule? Perhaps your school has an eight day rotation, or a period is dropped each day. Maybe your flex block rotates with your schedule or is offered a few times a week. It is important to make sure that the flex scheduler can accommodate your master schedule structure and your ideal flex block schedule.
3. Training
Your teachers are busy and there isn’t a lot of time to train them. Whatever flex scheduler you select, ensure it is a product that is easy to train. The most intuitively designed tools will be able to be taught with an on-demand video. If your school prefers to offer in person training, look for a tool that can be taught in an hour or less. The more intuitive the tool, the less training time you will need. It will also require less support once you are up and running.
If you are able to have real time data integration, comprehensive configuration, and lightweight teacher training, you are on your way to a successful implementation.
How long does the implementation take?
Schools can implement MyFlexLearning in just a few weeks. We have worked with a majority of the Student Information Systems and have established integration formats, which speeds up the process. Our team can move as fast as you would like.
Learn more about implementing a flex block by downloading our free guide.