Imagine being able to design your own school day, choosing every class, every time slot, and every subject? Some students say choosing their own schedules would make school more enjoyable. When asked what they would change about their current schedules, many students had strong opinions. For some, it was about swapping out tough classes for subjects they enjoy more.
“I would change my engine class to ASL,” said Chelsea Hurtado . “I’d get rid of business and marketing and switch it to drawing and design,” added Estella Mendoza, who still would keep her core classes because she wants to graduate on time. “I would change Latin history since I’m not really good with history and can’t keep up with all the writing. I’d switch it to drawing since I always doodle anyway,” said Yamilet Dominguez.
Others wanted new electives that reflect their passions. Yamilet suggested an animal/veterinarian class, while Nissi Rodriguez wants a cooking and fashion class, plus one just for field trips. Almost every student wanted to start school later. Nissi Rodriguez would begin at 9:00 a.m. and end at 2:00 p.m., while Yamilet Dominguez liked the idea of starting at 9:30 a.m. so everyone could sleep in more. Chelsea Hurtado would start at 8:20 a.m. and finish early at 2:00 p.m.
When it came to lunch, the opinions were clear: students wanted more time. Nissi said, “I would have 40 minutes for lunch because we don’t have enough time.” Zoe Rojas said she’d like a 35-minute lunch at 11:50 a.m. Most students wanted fewer, longer classes — around four to six per day, lasting an hour each. Others, like Yamilet, preferred shorter classes but more of them in a day, saying shorter periods make the day feel faster. And recess made a comeback in several answers. “Bring back recess!” said Estella. “I would like recess so I can have time to relax,” said Nissi.
When it comes to passing time, most agreed that 6–10 minutes would help them get to class without rushing. Zoe Rojas said, “I’d want 6 minutes so I can walk at my own pace since my classes are far from each other.” Yamilet Dominguez said, “I would give around 9 minutes since it gives us time to walk around, letting our brains and ourselves take a break.”
While everyone’s dream schedule looked different, one theme connected them all: students want school to fit their interests, energy levels, and goals. They care about learning, but also about balance. Letting students choose their own schedules could make school feel more personal and flexible. Still, it would take planning. Whether or not it happens, the idea shows how much students care about making school work better for them.
Giving students a voice in their schedules might also help them feel more motivated to come to school and learn. When classes match their interests and energy, students might be more engaged and do better academically. Schools could use student feedback like this to design schedules that balance structure with freedom.
Would YOU change anything about YOUR schedule? Tell us in the comments!
