October is bringing a major scheduling shift to Hingham High School. According to Dr. Buckey, HHS is piloting a brand-new flex block schedule running from October 5 through October 23. Designed to give students purposeful time during the school day to access what they need, the pilot introduces a 56-minute flex block on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:00 to 10:56 a.m.
For many students juggling rigorous academics, athletics, jobs, and extracurriculars, the announcement comes as a welcome relief. While a schedule cannot eliminate every source of stress, school leadership hopes this pilot will create valuable breathing room. The ultimate goal is to help students feel less rushed, less overwhelmed, and better supported, while fostering deeper learning and meaningful academic support.
Junior Caroline Allen looks forward to the change, noting how hard it is to stay motivated after sports practices. “During my study, I normally try to get as much work done as I can because after practice I tend to not want to do my work and have no motivation. My study helps me ensure I get some of my work done, or go talk to a teacher if I need to. I am excited for the flex block because it gives you more time to get your work done, but also if you need extra help you can go to any of your teachers to ask whatever questions you have.”
Similarly, Junior Ella Falconieri echoes Allen, “I like the idea of having the flex block because it gives me opportunities to talk to teachers at times that don’t interrupt their classes”.
But how do students actually feel about the flex block, and how will this change how they spend their study?
Freshman Lila Godfrey focused on the flex block as her project for 8th grade Civics Day last year, so she thinks it will be very helpful for students who might need extra time or any student who needs help. Additionally, freshman Grace D’Douza does not have a study so she thinks the flex block will be really beneficial to get work done.
Gabby Hoffman explained, “I use my study to get work done that is too stressful to get done the night prior. It makes it less chaotic to talk to teachers because I have the opportunity to ask one-on-one questions and have personal relationships with my teachers.”
However, Adeline Kelley reported, “In my study I finish up homework that I was not able to the night before or get ahead on my homework for that night. As much as flex blocks would be helpful to be able to see teachers, we are able to see them after and before school, so to me I don’t feel like there is not a huge point in having them.”
Below is a list of activities that students can do in their flex block:
- Work on assignments
- Engage in enrichment or independent practice
- Complete missed work
- Access the library for research
- Use time to meet with teachers for extra help
- Meet with school counselors
(Lily Christopher)
Allie Korn feels that her study is very beneficial, and flex block will enhance the benefits that come from a study period. “I use my study to get homework done from the night before and study for tests. I also find my study beneficial because it gives me a chance to see my teachers and complete work I missed when I am absent. I think this flex block will be very helpful to those who need extra on assignments and a chance to get homework done”.
For students: to figure out your flex block classroom, go to MyFlexLearning to find your schedule.
The HHS student body awaits, as the flex block schedule will occur next week (10/5-10/9), starting on Tuesday. The hope is that uncertainty about the schedule will vanish and feedback will be provided by students.
