Innovative Day
Our innovative bell schedule is a cornerstone of Polly Ryon's dynamic school day, thoughtfully designed to enhance the educational experience for both students and teachers. Inspired by Dr. Nivens, this approach provides educators with more planning time, offers students increased instructional time, and cultivates essential soft skills that extend beyond the traditional TEKS framework.
Every day, our schedule shifts, granting teachers dedicated weekly blocks of 90 minutes for collaborative planning. This rotating schedule not only empowers our Longhorns with additional learning opportunities—offering them extra time each week in every subject—but also enhances their educational experience through focused intervention and enrichment.
At the end of each day, our Longhorns dive into a diverse range of exploratory classes, where learning transcends core subjects. Imagine the excitement as they engage in thrilling activities like culinary arts, where they unleash their creativity in the kitchen, or the serene practice of yoga, promoting mindfulness and balance. They experiment with hair styling techniques that are sure to impress, or immerse themselves in the energetic world of ball sports, where teamwork and athleticism shine. For those intrigued by numbers and strategy, exploring football statistics provides a stimulating blend of sports and analytics, making learning both fun and relevant.
Every six weeks, our eager Longhorns have the chance to choose from a dynamic menu of exploratory options, empowering them to pursue their passions and discover new talents—all while enjoying an unforgettable experience. Our exploratory classes are meticulously designed to spark imagination, foster creativity, and nurture personal growth in an engaging environment. Here, learning becomes an adventure that prepares our students for a lifetime of curiosity and success!
In addition to our rotating bell schedule and daily exploratory classes, our teachers benefit from bi-weekly half-days dedicated to crafting rigorous and engaging lessons. This innovative structure has significantly increased instructional time, with our students receiving an additional 60 minutes of instruction per subject each week compared to a traditional schedule. Meanwhile, our teachers enjoy 900 minutes of planning time every two weeks, allowing them to refine their practices and deliver high-quality education. At Polly Ryon, we are committed to creating a vibrant and effective learning environment that inspires every Longhorn to thrive!