Senior Marissa Horning uses her free block to complete her various assignments.

OHS English 102 students have begun a new learning experience through the Heartland ‘College Now’ program; the new flexible learning class allows dual-credit students to have a more accurate college experience.

“This semester English 102 is experimenting with flexible learning days, which means that our schedule mimics that of a college schedule. Students attend class on Monday, Wednesday, Friday. On Tuesday and Thursday, as long as they maintain a C or better, students don’t have to attend the class that day,” said English Department Head Mrs. Meissner.

Although having two blocks per week off sounds like a dream for most high school students, this schedule change serves a more practical purpose. It’s offering a mini-transition from high school classes into college courses.

Meissner explained that both Olympia and Heartland were interested in being able to simulate a college experience as much as possible for students still in high school.

“The instructor is available with office hours and students make appointments and can come in for help on papers or other questions that they may have. A student in college is expected to set up appointments with their instructor in college, instead of just popping in to ask a question like in high school. This is helping students to make that transition,” said Meissner.

Students, while enjoying their free blocks, agree that having a flexible learning schedule is a helpful tool.

“I like that if I need to talk to Mrs. Meissner, I can make an appointment with her on those days. I also like that I can work at my own pace. If I want to work at home I can, or I can also come to school if I need to,” said senior Kelsey Lessen.

Lessen says that this new learning schedule is helping her to feel more prepared for college learning next year.

“I definitely have learned to manage my time. I can’t just sleep in on the days that I don’t have to come to class - I actually have to get work done then! But I do feel more prepared for college classes because of this schedule,” said Lessen.