DB-TC uses a trimester scheduling system. The trimester schedule provides fewer classes in a day (only five, rather than seven) but extended class time (76 minutes) in each class. The concept of the trimester is not new; many high schools and colleges use the trimester system, but we are the only school in the local area to offer the trimester system. We believe that this schedule better supports excellent academics at Dollar Bay-Tamarack City. 

The trimester system fits our small, but competitive school district best because it allows us to be flexible with our course offerings. Through the use of three trimesters in a school year, we are able to offer students three core classes and two elective classes per trimester. Our electives are much more flexible and enhanced due to the amount of courses we can now offer during the trimester calendar schedule. Other benefits of this new schedule include opportunities to customize class schedules and opportunity for remediation and credit recovery within the school year, which reduces the need for summer school. The schedule reduces scheduling conflicts with band, choir, and advanced courses, allows for smaller class sizes, and does not require additional staff.

Trimester Class Schedule: 

• 8:25  - 9:41 a.m.       1st Period (76 minutes)
• 9:45  - 11:01 a.m.     2nd Period (76 minutes)
• 11:05 - 12:21 p.m.    3rd Period (76 minutes)
• 12:21  - 12:50 p.m.   Lunch (29 minutes)
• 12:54 - 2:10 p.m.      4th Period (76 minutes)
• 2:14 - 3:30 p.m.        5th Period (76 minutes)

More information about the Trimester Schedule:

• There are three 60-day trimesters per school year--12 weeks each, or three calendar months.
• First Tri begins in early September, Second Tri begins in late November, Third Tri begins in early March.
• Students attend five 76-minute classes per day. (Teachers teach four of five.)
• A full-credit course is two trimesters.
• A half-credit course is one trimester.
• Some courses may meet for all three trimesters.
• Students earn 7.5 credits per school year (30 in four high school years).
• Exams are given at the end of each trimester.
• There is no change in the length of the school day or the school year.
• There is no change in our emphasis on core principles.
• Students prepare for five classes each week instead of seven or eight.