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Alcoa High School next year will introduce a new schedule to meet the needs of students and staff.

School officials plan to implement a trimester schedule. Students will take three 12-week grading periods extending over 180 days. They will take five classes during a typical day.

Students will have the opportunity to take 15 1/2-credit courses throughout the year. They can receive 7 1/2 credits each year and 30 total credits in their high school career.

Teachers currently work one day each week without a planning period. They will have a planning period every day on the trimester schedule.

Officials are also working to schedule professional development opportunities into the trimester schedule, said Alcoa High School Principal Scott Porter.

Students will earn a half-credit for each trimester class. Struggling students will now have three chances to earn full credit for classes.

“The trimester schedule could really be helpful for our staff and students in trying to meet the needs of the Tennessee Diploma Project. It could also provide more opportunities for our struggling and advanced students,” said Alcoa Director of Schools Tom Shamblin.