E J Cooper High School - Talons Yearbook (New Hope, MN)

Page 19 text:

Changes and new experiences at Cooper this year were numerous. The changeover from modular to traditional scheduling was, in part, responsible for the additions and alterations in and around Cooper. In previous years, modular scheduling provided the student with approximately 40% Independent Study time. However, some members of the student body were not utilizing their I.S. time properly, so a more traditional schedule consisting of an 8 period day came into existence at Cooper and swept away modular scheduling. The student was now making every effort to adjust to the new system. There was no longer a variety of classes in a day, or an abundance of free time — during or after school. The student was forced to utilize his time and survive the rather blah day via one lunch and free period. Advantages come with disadvantages, though. Additions like a Reading Laboratory and an allelectric typing room were set up to improve the students' skills. The Independent Material Centers (IMC) were centralized for easier access to the student. Films and tapes were also made available in the library. Outdoor classrooms were mostly used by the Art, Phy Ed, and Science Departments. Plants and flowers planted in the arboretum last year blossomed and were observed by many. Also blossoming was Girls' Interscholastic Sports. Increasing state competition, along with more participation resulted in a growing number of female jocks at Cooper. Homecoming was another success in 1974. With more activities available, the students interests were met, and many more participated during homecoming week. Floats were constructed for the first time in years. To a Cooper student, broadening was, in a sense, everyday life. Experiencing the new, and pushing on was a part of 1975. is