Individualize Instruction

Successful schools recognize that a one-size-fits-all approach to education will not yield success with the diverse array of learners most schools now serve. In order to help all students achieve at enhanced levels, each student must have a schedule and an academic program that are tailored to address their individual needs. An expanded schedule is the linchpin to this individualized approach, allowing schools to offer double, and sometimes triple, doses of instruction and to tailor the instructional approach to best address student skill and knowledge gaps. With more time, teachers and administrators can use data to identify standards to review and re-teach and design learning opportunities – including one-on-one tutoring, small group work, and technology supported interventions – that help every student achieve mastery.

Promising Practice 3

In this chapter of Time Well Spent, read about how successful, expanded-time schools use time to individualize learning time and instruction based on student needs.
Rocketship Mateo Sheedy Elementary, San Jose, CA

With more than three hours of reading and a Learning Lab period that utilizes digital content, Rocketship Mateo Sheedy is leveraging expanded time to serve their unique English Language Learner population. Read about how they schedule these periods, and the impact of more time on their students.
Clarence Edwards Middle School, Boston, MA

Many of the students who enroll at expanded time schools are behind in core academic subjects. Read about how the Edwards Middle School uses more time to develop a rigorous core curriculum and supplements it with a tiered academic support program called Academic Leagues.
Golder College Prep, Chicago, IL

Expanded time schools often provide double, sometimes triple, doses of academic content to ensure student success. Read about how Golder College Prep schedules additional time for English and math, as well as individualized instructional support.