Modified block schedule coming

Students at Prairie Central High School in Fairbury will transition into a modified block schedule in the fall of 2027.

“This is a process that has taken a long time,” PCHS Principal Wade Czerwonka told members of the PC Board of Education Tuesday night.

Czerwonka refers to the new schedule as a positive for both students and teachers, saying the current system puts kids at a disadvantage when it comes to testing. He feels this would be a more natural pace for everyone involved.

“Test scores are not where I feel they should be,” he noted.

Under the proposal, the modified block schedule would include three traditional days with multiple classes lasting a shorter duration and two block days with longer classes, which works best for courses that include labs or shop time. The school is currently on a four-block schedule and has been for many years.

“We shouldn’t have to make any changes to our graduation requirements,” explained Czerwonka.

Superintendent Brian Quam said the district will have to rebuild Infinite Campus for scheduling purposes.

“Kids can still take 32 classes over four years,” stated Quam who believes this will be beneficial for PC students in the long run.

Also at Tuesday’s regular PC Board meeting, Czerwonka reminded the group of the FFA Hog Roast and Auction on Thursday along with the upcoming “Wizard of Oz” musical in Chenoa over the weekend. An ACT day is coming April 8. Juniors will be able to leave after testing while seniors will be excused from school that day.

Czerwonka reviewed school improvement goals which include attendance rates, getting freshman involved in an activity and improving ACT scores.

Superintendent Quam reported new lights are installed in the junior high gym and the sound system should be replaced soon, following the late December storm damage to the roof. New flooring will be laid at the school during spring break.

A state testing update was given as testing is currently underway through April 17. Teachers have done a good job preparing.

“Things have gone very smooth thus far,” said Jenifer McGowan, K-6 director of curriculum and instruction.

A transportation committee meeting was held last month where parameters were set up for evaluating transportation needs. The district was able to secure a van for purchase at $35,238. Camera upgrades are planned and bus trade-ins are planned for FY27.

The group approved a fuel bid from Ken’s Oil Service in Forrest for bulk diesel fuel at slightly over $3.30 a gallon.

Minutes from the regular Feb. 19 meeting were authorized along with the special meeting on March 3.

The consent agenda was approved, which included bills, financial reports, CSFT reports, IHSA membership renewal, high school swimming co-op renewal and an overnight trip request.