TSC starts school

School started for TSC students, but classes begin 20 minutes later than last year. Teachers here at Battle Ground Middle School used the time for a daily morning meeting. The district schedules a half hour each morning for teacher professional development in all elementary and middle schools. Parents said the later start time made mornings less chaotic and a little healthier.

"I personally liked it. It gave us 20 extra minutes to get ready in the morning," explained parent Laura Taylor, who has two students at Battle Ground Middle.

"I had breakfast and the boys had breakfast," said parent Connie Reckowski.

Teachers said the half hour collaboration time everyday gives them time before it gets hectic to focus on teaching techniques that will benefit students."

"We've been introduced to so much new technology. Instead of trying to cram a training session or simply tell us what it can do, what it's capable of, everyone can appreciate the time to learn it, practice it and share with each other how it can be effective in the classroom," explained sixth grade English teacher at Battle Ground Middle Jessica Strawsma.

Strawsma said the time allows her to find out best practices from other educators. The morning meeting takes the place of six half-days for teacher in-service. The state eliminated those so students would have 180 full days in class. Battle Ground Middle School Principal BeAnn Younker believes the morning minutes everyday will benefit students.

"We can make the most change by working collaboratively all year long," she said.

The time change doesn't alter the amount of instructional time for students.