On Friday, Nov. 3, Manual will attempt a trial run of its first Crimson Hour. The original idea was proposed to the administration during the 2016-17 school year but has resurfaced as a viable option this year.

The goal for Crimson Hour is to provide time for students to complete tasks that they otherwise would not be able to complete. Students can utilize 30 minutes for lunch and the other half of the period to conference with teachers, visit the guidance office or receive extra aide for a class.

Administrators are still considering how annually this will occur, whether it be once every week, every two weeks or even every six weeks. Friday’s results will have an effect on this.

Ms. Erin Moss (Chemistry) feels that the extra time during the day could help kids take more responsibility for their learning.

“If you had more targeted interaction and small group study sessions, that could be beneficial. Having kids makeup labs or other projects during school instead of having to stay after would be nice,” Moss said.  

AP teachers contribute to a majority of the opponents to this new proposal, they fear that a constant reduction of class time could lead to less content covered by the strict AP test date.

Hypothetically, over the course of a full school year until the first AP test date, there would be 169 days of instruction.

The Manual administration is still in the process of finalizing plans for an actual Crimson Hour, but Friday’s outcome could stand as a representation of how students will utilize their time.

Lilly Gonzalez (10, MST) is one of many students who could benefit from having implemented work-time in her schedule.

“I believe that the Crimson Hour is really a great opportunity for students to catch up on academics, destress, or even get active physically. In addition, many students do not have a study skills,” Gonzalez said.

Additionally, the Crimson Hour could serve extremely beneficial for students participating in science fair competitions; the extra time could allow for in-school research.

“I think it [Crimson Hour] would be a great idea for Manual. Personally, I am using the time to get help from teachers that stay for after school help on days where I cannot stay. I think it [Crimson Hour] could help students with science fair by allowing them to do research in the library, work on their paper, or practice their presentations,” Minh Tran (11, MST) said.

Assistant Principal Bryan Crady has had the biggest influence in the planning of Crimson Hour.

Bryan Crady on Crimson Hour from duPont Manual on Vimeo.

Check ManualRedEye for coverage on the outcome of this year’s Crimson Hour.