Creating time for Professional Learning Communities by offering unique learning opportunities to students

Students engage in choice-based enrichment opportunities for one hour per week that allows general education teachers to collaborate in professional learning communities.

Opportunity Hour provides students with one hour each week to learn about topics of interest outside traditional curriculum (e.g., chess, circus activities, etc.). Students are able to choose from eight different activities every eight weeks. While students may not always get their first choice, many courses are offered multiple times throughout the year so students can pursue topics of interest.

Opportunity Hour provides benefits to the Trailblazer staff as well. Classes during Opportunity Hour are instructed by specialists, providing core content teachers the chance to meet in Professional Learning Communities. Specialists are also paired with a co-teacher, providing staff with opportunities to work in new content areas with new people.