Rockland Rogers Middle School Unveils Sweeping Schedule Overhaul to Boost Student Achievement
ROCKLAND - September 8 - The Rockland School Committee heard detailed plans Monday night for a comprehensive schedule restructuring at Rogers Middle School that synchronizes the entire building, introduces daily recess for fifth and sixth graders, and expands music programs to serve 77 students in band and chorus.
The Full Story
Principal Richard MacAllister presented the results of an extensive year-long analysis that examined scheduling practices across multiple neighboring districts. The new six-day, six-period rotating schedule maintains the same school hours - 7:55 a.m. to 2:40 p.m. - but creates significant internal changes designed to maximize learning opportunities and better prepare students for high school.
The centerpiece of the restructuring is a synchronized "long block" fourth period that eliminates previous scheduling conflicts where students were simultaneously assigned to different blocks. "Previously in the past, our old schedule, because of the lunch duties and the rotation that we had, we may end up having students in C block and in D block, oddly enough, at the same time," MacAllister explained to the committee. "And this was a scheduling nightmare."
The synchronization allows seventh and eighth graders to have 87-minute periods during the long block, while fifth and sixth graders receive a 52-55 minute period following a 30-minute lunch and newly instituted recess. The extended periods enable science teachers to conduct more in-depth laboratory work and allow for project-based learning that better mirrors high school expectations.
For the first time in years, Rogers Middle School has restored recess for fifth and sixth grade students. MacAllister described the immediate impact: "As soon as I stopped, I had eight kids immediately do a 100-yard dash across the field for no other reason than to do a 100-yard dash. So just all that pent-up angst and that build-up of anxiety, it's a chance for them to get it out of their system." The recess program, supported by the Parks Department, aims to provide conflict resolution opportunities and physical outlets that may improve classroom focus.
The schedule changes enable significant improvements to the school's music program. Band and chorus now meet daily during the "Bulldog Block," allowing students to fully commit to music education without missing academic classes. This year, 45 fifth graders enrolled in band and 32 in chorus, representing a substantial increase attributed directly to the scheduling changes. Students who previously couldn't participate due to conflicts with special education services can now split their time between music and required support services.
The restructuring also addresses gaps identified in MCAS science data, particularly in manufacturing and engineering. Rogers has introduced a new STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Manufacturing) program designed to bridge the gap between Phelps Elementary's STEM program and Rockland High School's advanced offerings in physics, robotics, and engineering.
World language instruction received a major overhaul, moving from a half-year French/half-year Spanish model to full-year commitments in either language. Under the previous system, students might only see their world language teacher for 11 days over the course of a year. The new structure ensures students receive a complete year of instruction, positioning them to enter high school at level two proficiency and potentially qualify for the Seal of Biliteracy Assessment by their sophomore year.
Special education services also benefit from the synchronized schedule. The school can now allocate two special education staff members to each grade level, enabling better collaboration between special education and general education teachers and allowing special education staff to build stronger relationships with students across multiple subjects.
Superintendent Dr. Alan Cron praised the collaborative effort, noting that the scheduling committee began meeting in August before MacAllister's first year as principal. "The fact that we are in the second full week of school and all you-know-what isn't breaking loose as a result of these changes is a testament to our commitment to kids first and being adults," Cron said. He acknowledged the significant demands placed on staff and their exceptional response to the changes.
The committee also approved 14 fundraising requests spanning the entire school year, from fall sports equipment drives to spring track meets. Student Government Vice President Erin Maroney, serving as the new student representative, outlined upcoming events including Senior Sunrise, Homecoming on October 18th, and Project Pumpkin on October 25th.
In his superintendent's report, Dr. Cron addressed several community concerns, including safety protocols around student pickup and drop-off areas, and raised awareness about the growing presence of electric bikes on campus. He expressed safety concerns about students riding electric bikes that can reach 30 miles per hour, noting the district may need to develop formal policies to address the issue.
Why It Matters
The schedule restructuring represents the most significant operational change at Rogers Middle School in recent years, directly addressing longstanding concerns about student engagement and academic preparation. Parents of fifth and sixth graders will see their children receive structured recess time for the first time, while families with musicians can expect their students to maintain consistent participation in band or chorus without academic sacrifice. The changes create clearer pathways from elementary through high school, particularly in STEM fields and world languages, potentially improving college and career readiness for Rockland students.
Meeting Minutes
Key Motions & Votes
Motion: Approve August 18th meeting minutes. Outcome: Approved. Vote: Unanimous. (Timestamp: 3:43)
Motion: Approve June monthly reports (administrators, guidance, nurse, pupil personnel services). Outcome: Approved. Vote: Unanimous. (Timestamp: 4:38)
Motion: Approve June financial reports (RHS and Rogers student activities). Outcome: Approved. Vote: Unanimous. (Timestamp: 4:54)
Motion: Approve July monthly reports (administrators). Outcome: Approved. Vote: Unanimous. (Timestamp: 5:32)
Motion: Approve July financial reports (RHS and Rogers student activities). Outcome: Approved. Vote: Unanimous. (Timestamp: 5:47)
Motion: Approve August monthly reports (administrators). Outcome: Approved. Vote: Unanimous. (Timestamp: 6:02)
Motion: Approve 14 fundraising requests. Outcome: Approved. Vote: Unanimous. (Timestamp: 36:47)
What's Next
The middle school will continue monitoring the effectiveness of the new schedule throughout the year. Dr. Cron indicated the district may develop formal policies regarding electric bikes on campus. The first PACK meetings are scheduled for September 9th (Phelps), September 12th (Esten), and September 17th (Rogers Middle School).