Guidance for Implementing Arena Scheduling in High Schools
Effective: Second Semester 2025–2026 and Fall 2026
Dear High School Administrators,
As part of our ongoing commitment to equitable access, student voice, and efficient school operations, we are preparing to implement arena scheduling (class choice registration) for the second semester of the 2025–2026 school year and for Fall 2026. This is the first of what we anticipate will be several communications outlining processes and systems for this process.
Arena scheduling allows students to actively participate in building their schedules by selecting classes during designated windows of time. Research has shown that student involvement in course selection increases ownership over learning, reduces schedule change requests later, and promotes higher levels of satisfaction with school (Morrison, 2018; Levin, 2020). Additionally, when implemented with fidelity, arena scheduling improves balance in class sizes and maximizes staffing efficiency.
To ensure smooth implementation, we will follow a common registration calendar across all high schools.
Arena Scheduling Calendar
| Month(s) | Action | Responsible Party |
|---|---|---|
| October | All new course requests or course changes submitted by end of fall break | Teachers, Principals |
| November & December | Course requests | Counselors, Students |
| January & February | Schools build schedules | School Administration |
| March & April | Load student requests | School Administration |
| May | Students modify their schedules (no teachers listed) | Counselors, Students |
| After July 15 | Final schedule load | IT Department |
Implementation Notes & Rationale
- Promotes Student Agency
- Students take greater ownership of their education when they have choice in course selection.
- Involving students early supports better alignment between academic goals and personal interests.
- Reduces Scheduling Conflicts
- By allowing schedule modifications in May, schools can address conflicts before the fall semester begins.
- This reduces stress on both families and counselors at the start of the year.
- Supports Equity and Transparency
- A consistent process across schools ensures fairness in how students access courses.
- Clear timelines help families and staff plan ahead.
- Improves Operational Efficiency
- Earlier submission of requests and course loads gives schools more time to finalize staffing and resource needs.
- Fewer last-minute changes mean
ssmoother school openings.
Next Steps for Administrators
- Communicate this calendar and process to counselors, teachers, and front office staff to ensure alignment.
- Support staff in preparing students for the new process by hosting informational sessions or providing resources.
- Encourage teachers and counselors to highlight the importance of thoughtful course selection with students.
Thank you for leading this important shift. By implementing arena scheduling together, we are creating a more student-centered and efficient system that benefits our learners, our staff, and our schools.
