As of next year, Greenhill Upper Schoolers will follow a new schedule.

The current schedule contains seven academic block periods with four on green days, three on gold, and a full 80 minutes designated to Community Time.

In the place of Community Time, students have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities ranging from Affinity Groups, Clubs, and Assemblies.

The idea to make a change came from the Head of Upper School, Trevor Worcester.

“I don’t think many students are taking full advantage of the programming we offer, like club rotations or affinity groups,” Worcester said. “The intention was for students to be more involved, and we just feel that has not happened lately.”

The new schedule will include another 80-minute academic block in place of Community Time. This can be filled with another course, or a break.

“I will have two free periods next year, so now I can make sure I have time to stay on top of my classes,” Sophomore Eliana Campbell said.

Along with Community Time, advisory, clubs, and affinity groups will be split into smaller increments throughout the school day, and school will begin earlier, at 8:30 AM.

“Personally, the early start is not an issue for me because of how close I live, but I can see how it can be problematic for others,” Campbell said. “Overall, I am excited about the change and think it will work out well.”

The idea for a new schedule went through many processes to ensure it was the right choice. It was first presented to the leadership groups, which included Assistant Head of Upper School Rebecca Shuman, Dean of Students Jack Oros, and Assistant Equity and Inclusion Director Ahmed Najm.

After it was discussed, the idea was taken to the college counseling team and the department chairs for further consideration. Lastly, a draft was given to teachers in the Upper School who could propose changes as they saw fit.

While the opportunity for students to take eight classes seems enticing, students need to ensure they have the time to do so.

“Students have to know based on factors occurring in their school and out of school lives, whether they can take on an 8-period schedule and have time for possible extracurriculars such as sports,” Worcester said.