Hybrid classes offer flexibility
Non-traditional class schedules are gaining interest at NPHS. Shriya Rajesh, junior, is currently taking Steve Johnson’s hybrid history class. “I took the hybrid class because I thought it would give me more time to manage my other classes on top of a history class, which is a class I also really enjoy,” Rajesh said. Rajesh was also drawn to the class to experience teacher Steve Johnson’s final year before retirement. “I also really wanted Mr. Johnson so it worked out great because I heard a lot of great things about Mr. Johnson. So this hybrid class helped me get the best of both worlds,” Rajesh said.
Abby Morgenstern, junior, who takes the same class as Rajesh, finds the freedom in its structure rewarding. “I wanted to take history as a hybrid because it’s more flexible. So I could set my own pace, and it gave me a free period,” Morgenstern said. The online aspect of the class aided Morgenstern in finding the best way to learn for her. “You can set your own pace because a lot of it is online. So it gives you in person like answering the questions but also, your own. You can work around your own schedule outside of school,” Morgenstern said.
Lily Kang, junior, is also taking Johnson’s IB History of the Americas as a hybrid seventh period. The class currently meets twice a week on Mondays and every other Wednesday.Kang believes it is helpful for students who are busy with extracurriculars. “It could be beneficial for students that are busy with their extracurriculars because it’s less time consuming. I don’t learn any less than I do in other classes,” Kang said. The benefits Kang described apply to many students and can aid in reducing the time commitment involved in taking a class like IB US History, “ It’s one of the best choices I’ve ever made, especially because I’m really busy, it gives me a lot more flexibility with my time,” Kang said.
Rajesh also enjoyed her time in the hybrid 7th period IB History class. “I still get to meet people, and work face to face. And then we also do a lot of online work, which I feel is what also happens in a normal class, but I feel it kind of gives me the opportunity to meet people,” Rajesh said.
