Scheduling has always been a critical factor in the successful maintenance of the music programs. Recently, some high schools in Colorado have adopted a scheduling system, hereafter referred to in this study as the 'four period day'. Students take only four classes per semester. One full credit, which in other scheduling systems is earned for two semesters of class work, is earned in one semester. Each class period is lengthened to approximately 90 minutes as compared to the traditional class length of 50 to 60 minutes.
Faculty members teach for three periods and have one period for preparation time.
The rationales for adopting this plan are many and varied. This concern is centered around the possibility that a scheduling system may have been implemented which directly or indirectly prevents students from enrolling in music performance arts classes and thus prohibits students from receiving the numerous benefits associated with the performance arts classes. Music education is a vital component of total education. The information to be collected is of great interest and importance to music educators and other affected parties. To furnish an arts education is one of education's most important duties.