Cutting block classes is a loss for students

Students at Jefferson High School in Cedar Rapids are being forced to give up the opportunity to take the most advanced literature and history classes available. These classes are known as “the block.” The block teaches students to think critically about events through the careful examination of history and literature, so that they may become critical thinkers in the future. The block classes at Jefferson High School are an essential aspect to upper level students' education.

As a former block student, I believe I received a more thorough and meaningful education by taking history and language arts together, than by taking the classes separately. Students build a positive sense of camaraderie with each other by going through the year together in the block classes. The majority of valedictorians and AP Scholars have come from the block classes at Jefferson.

Cutting the programs would be a devastating loss to students who deserve to be challenged in ways that regular-level or even separated advanced classes could not supply. Furthermore, eliminating these upper-level classes will pull students behind others are in the nation, making it more difficult to gain admission to top schools.

The decision to abolish the classes does not follow the quest of the school district to “develop world-class learners and responsible citizens,” as defined by its mission statement.

Elizabeth Steuber

Cedar Rapids