The Nugget Newspaper - News and Opinion from Sisters, Oregon

Wednesdays look a little different this year at Sisters High School.

School doesn't officially begin until second period ­ 9:30 a.m.

"First period every Wednesday is Personal Enhancement Time, or PET," said Assistant Principal Bob Macauley. "While both teachers and students can benefit, it is primarily for our teachers.

"Our teachers are our greatest asset," he continued. "We want to take advantage of their creativity and talent. The purpose of PET is to allow teachers to work on paperwork for state programs or to do some departmental planning in small groups."

The time is made up for by starting school five minutes earlier and ending five minutes later throughout the week.

"The state mandated Certificate of Initial Mastery (CIM) requires a lot of paperwork," Macauley said. "But we are also prioritizing a school-to-work program and getting that going. The teachers are also involved in LINK, where each staff member is responsible for about 10 students.

"LINK groups meet every Wednesday for half an hour. Each student has a personal education plan, and keeps the same LINK advisor for all four years. It's a way for the students to connect with an adult, and stay on track educationally."

The schedule allows athletes who sometimes get home very late from road games to catch up on sleep. Those who show up earlier can participate in other programs.

"The gym is open for intramural sports, the cafetorium is open for study groups, and the computer lab, the library, and the art room are all available," Macauley said. "These are being staffed by volunteers. I especially appreciate Matt Macauley and Tom Harpham for their help -- they are there every week. We also proctor tests for students, and if arrangements are made in advance, tutoring is available."

The program accommodates the needs of families, Macauley said.

"We knew that because of the work schedules of parents, we had to keep a consistent schedule for the students in the morning," he said.

"Kids who ride the bus and get there at the normal time take advantage of PET. Kids who drive can get to school later."