With approximately $425,000 in cuts last year, the Albert Lea school district is looking to find areas which could be streamlined further to meet its budget.

One area being scrutinized with interest is the students’ schedule &045; the district is considering the advantages of going to a six-day period from the current block schedule because it could save an estimated $250,000.

We don’t envy the district their decision. Weighing the benefits of both schedules will be a tough call. For instance, how does one justify trading more in-depth study of the subject matter and a slower pace to allow learning as provided in the block system with offering math and reading classes all year to prevent learning gaps?

The district wants the best possible schedule for students considering the budget provided and maximum achievement by all students through a well-rounded and rigorous curriculum and is charged with determining the best way to meet those challenges. With the help of parents, however, perhaps some compromise may be found.

The block schedule has been in place since the 1995-96 school year. Prior to 1995, the district was on a seven-period schedule. From 1982 to 1985, the high school was on a six-period day. One of our questions: how did the students fare on tests under each of the schedules?

Whether you agree or disagree that state and federal tests measure a student’s learning success, such tests determine funding for school districts and must remain high.

The district must continue with this discussion and include all stakeholders &045; parents, students and alumni &045; to reach a successful balance between budget constraints and student learning.

And parents, students and alumni must take this discussion seriously and attend meetings as the district schdules them. Only then will the best solution be found.