Why We Have Flex Blocks at Maranatha

According to Principal Dan Newkirk, Flex is designed to provide support to students who might not be in specialized support programs or advanced tracks, but who still benefit from focused academic guidance.

 

Flex provides structured, supervised time during the school day for independent work. Research shows that unsupervised homework isn’t always effective, so giving students time on campus — with teachers available for questions, support, or make-up work — leads to more meaningful learning. For many students, this is the breathing room they need to move from a B+ to an A, or from a C- into stronger academic territory.

 

There’s also a well-being component. By completing more work during school hours, students often reclaim time after school for sports, clubs, family time, and, hopefully, sleep.

 

A key feature of Flex is student ownership. Three days each week, students choose which Flex session to attend based on their needs. They might sign up to make up a quiz, get extra help from their language teacher, meet with a math instructor before an upcoming test, or even join an option like a lacrosse Flex to get some exercise. This flexibility empowers students to take responsibility for their learning and make intentional decisions about how to use their time. 

Flexes are intentional spaces within the school week for students to get the support they need, take ownership of their learning, and develop habits that lead to long-term success.