During the monthly Tippecanoe Valley School Corporation board meeting, Tippecanoe Valley High School Principal Dr. Michael Bendicsen presented a request for the school board to approve the incorporation of a “viking success period” at the high school.

Bendicsen explained first and foremost that the period should not be confused with a second study hall. Instead, it is a 41 minute block that allows teachers to focus on instruction with students based on areas they may need extra help.

According to Bendicsen, the course was designed following teachers’ request. Attempt to follow the Performance Learning Model, teachers have met in the morning to discuss student performance and plans of action to improve teaching practices. Bendicsen noted he felt this was the “logical next step” to continue PLC efforts at the high school.

Bendicsen also noted that a success period has been utilized at both the elementary and middle school levels and has proven to be effective.

An important aspect of Bendicsen’s request was that the period will not be treated as a “one size fits all” situation. Instead, he explained the time period will be tailored to each student’s particular needs and desires. Students wanting to take a course in lieu of the success period will be allowed to. In addition, students who do not necessarily need extra help in a subject will be allowed to utilize the time for enrichment activities, such as assisting special needs students or tutoring.

When asked what the period will take the place of during the school day, Bendicsen noted the 41 minute block was created by simply shaving three minutes off of each class period during the day.

The board voted unanimously to incorporate the success period in the high school schedule.