A proposal for a modified block schedule at Wenatchee High School was unanimously approved last night by the Wenatchee School Board.

Principal Bob Celebrezze took his proposal to the school board last night simply as an informational presentation for the board’s consideration. But after the board members reached a quick consensus, the schedule was approved for next year.

Former president of the board Jesús Hernandez was first to move to pass Celebrezze’s proposal and new president Laura Jaecks seconded the motion.

“This is the right thing to do for our students at the high school,” new board member Jennifer Talbot said.

Some concerns were discussed about the schedule proposal by Director of Human Resources Lisa Turner, Chief Financial Officer Les Vandervort, and assistant superintendent Jon DeJong. Those concerns were about a new state requirement for 1,080 hours of seat time required for grades 7-12.

While the board is aware of those issues, members still believed that this is the right move for students at WHS.

Jaecks commended Celebrezze for his efforts to get a change rolling and reaching a consensus so soon after becoming principal just three months ago.

Look for continuing coverage of this issue in the print version of The Apple Leaf on Dec. 18.