Bulldog Block
What is Bulldog Block?
This year, we have created a Bulldog Block on Wednesdays in 'Block 5' after the four regular compressed blocks. Bulldog Block runs from 12:55 - 1:55. School bus pick-up will be at 2:00 on Wednesdays, half an hour earlier than the rest of the week.
Is Bulldog Block a new thing?
Not really. Bellerose has been incorporating 'flex time' in student programming for over a decade, in most recent years as 'Student Academic Support Time' scheduled on Tuesdays and Thursdays for 20 minutes during an extended lunch break. We believe that having a full hour-long block once per week will be much more effective.
What is the purpose of Bulldog Block?
To better meet the needs of our students and give them access to a wide variety of supports and learning opportunities. A few examples of what students can expect to find offered during Bulldog Block:- Targeted learning seminars, for example: how to factor polynomials, how to write a strong thesis statement, or how to conduct experiments following the scientific method.- Walk-in support in core subject areas, regardless of who the student's teacher is.- Missed assessment make-ups.- Physical activity and wellness sessions.- CTS module catch-up.- High interest area learning, such as film studies, book clubs, logic challenges, art projects, etc.- Demonstrations.- Guest speakers.- Quiet study/homework area.- Life skills sessions: how to manage stress, apply for a job, etc.
How do students know where to go for Bulldog Block?
Every department has been tasked with providing a monthly schedule. These will be posted in various places: on Google Classrooms, hard-copy posters hanging in classrooms, through QR codes, and on TV monitors. Teachers will also be talking about Bulldog Block with their students throughout the week, and in many instances directing students to particular sessions. In some cases, sessions will have capped attendance and require sign-up earlier in the week. Students should have planned where they will be going for Bulldog Block well in advance of 12:55 on Wednesdays.
Is attendance mandatory?
Students are expected to attend. This is their chance to access support and enhanced learning in a highly structured way. If a student is struggling or falling behind, you can be sure the first question we will ask is, "How are they using Bulldog Block?" Of course, Bulldog Block is still a 'flex' block, and students who, for example, are participating in Work Experience or the Registered Apprenticeship Program may be able to get an earlier start in the workplace on Wednesdays. We may also, on occasion, use Bulldog Block for student activities to lessen the disruption on regular classes. Students who are not in a designated space or participating in a designated activity during Bulldog Block will be asked to move along - it's not an opportunity to hang out in the hallways with friends.