One of the main concerns raised about the Trimester system is the gap some students experience between classes during the Winter Trimester. This issue seems to be the driving force behind the Board of Education’s push toward Semesters or a hybrid schedule. But the assumption that a Winter Trimester gap is harmful simply doesn’t hold up to evidence.

In the early 2000s, Spring Lake High School in Michigan conducted a three‑year study examining how students performed when they had a gap in certain subjects. The findings were clear. Students performed just as well, and in many cases even better, when they had that Winter Trimester break. Far from being a disadvantage, the gap can actually reinforce learning by giving students time to absorb knowledge and focus on other subjects before returning to the subject.

Moreover, our district already has effective safeguards in place. Enrichment classes in Math and English ensure that Freshmen and Sophomores who need year‑round support receive it. These classes provide continuous instruction, and the results speak for themselves. Math enrichment has already boosted state assessment scores, and with the recent addition of ELA enrichment for Sophomores, we have every reason to expect similar gains in English.

The Trimester system also makes it easier for students to accelerate. For example, Sophomores can “double up” on Math by taking Geometry and Algebra II in the same year. Under a Semester schedule, that would mean two math classes every day for 36 weeks. With Trimesters, students only have both of those classes at the same time for 12 weeks.

In fact, nearly half of Freshmen and more than half of Sophomores already take Math year‑round through enrichment or accelerated pathways. Many students also have year‑long English instruction. The Board’s concern that students lack continuous exposure simply doesn’t reflect reality.

Instead of dismantling a system that works, the Board should expand enrichment opportunities to more students. That way, those who need year‑round instruction can access it, while others continue to benefit from the flexibility and breathing room that the Trimester schedule provides. This approach truly offers the best of both worlds: support for those who need it, and balance for those who thrive with a break.

Switching to Semesters would be a costly and disruptive solution to a problem that has already been addressed. Strengthening enrichment programs is the smarter, simpler, and more effective path forward.

Sincerely,

Colton Elsen

Sophomore Class President

Council Grove Junior Senior High School