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Understanding the need for staggered schedules
As schools across the globe grapple with increasing student populations, Burnaby School District is taking proactive measures to address overcrowding in its high schools. Starting in the 2025-2026 school year, four of the district’s eight high schools will adopt a staggered schedule, which is expected to increase capacity by 10 percent.
This decision comes in response to significant enrollment growth and aims to create a more manageable learning environment for students.
Details of the staggered schedule implementation
The schools affected by this new schedule include Alpha Secondary, Burnaby Central Secondary, Burnaby Mountain Secondary, and Moscrop Secondary.
Each of these institutions will transition to a five-block schedule, allowing for a more flexible use of classroom space throughout the day. Burnaby North Secondary will not be adopting this schedule, as the district plans to implement alternative measures to manage its existing space effectively.
Community response and future implications
Superintendent Karim Hachlaf emphasized the district’s commitment to considering the impact of this change on students, staff, and families. While the decision was not made lightly, it reflects the district’s responsibility to accommodate both current and incoming students.
As educational institutions in the Lower Mainland, including several high schools in Surrey, have successfully implemented similar strategies, Burnaby’s approach may serve as a model for other districts facing similar challenges. The move not only addresses immediate overcrowding issues but also sets a precedent for future planning as student populations continue to grow.
