Even with the colder weather we are currently experiencing in Rome, spring break is only a week away! As in the past, we will observe a Day 0 the Wednesday before spring break for students to preregister for classes. On this day, the Upper School begins thinking about courses for next year. Students will receive a copy of the Advising Plan in advisory, attend all of their classes for 15 minutes, hear about the options of the courses in the sequence from their teachers, and have a chance to ask questions about which option they should choose. Students will also hear about selecting a balance of AP/Honors and college prep classes that is best for them.
Preregistration Day may feel like a break from regular classwork, but it plays a crucial role in planning our courses. It helps us determine the number of class sections needed and ensures smaller class sizes.
For example, if enough students preregister for three AP Biology and three college-prep Biology sections, we plan accordingly. However, if students later drop AP Biology, those classes shrink while college prep Biology becomes overcrowded.
By taking preregistration seriously, you help us create a balanced schedule that benefits everyone. Please stress the importance of this day with your child. We will do the same.
Students will use Google Forms to enter courses this year. Each student will select their courses and submit them on Wednesday. This is not a final course list and can be changed over the next month. I encourage you to discuss course choices with your child over spring break and what is best for their strengths and study time availability. All students will be able to adjust their responses until Friday, April 11.
We have some exciting things ahead after spring break! Spring sports are already underway, and we’re looking forward to a few special chapel talks. Plus, we’re excited for the return of Light the Lake in April—stay tuned for more details in next month’s newsletter.
Enjoy spring break with your family and friends. Please let me know if I can do anything to help your student make the most of their Darlington experience.
