The modified school calendar used by some schools within the Wake County Public School System divides the academic year into four nine-week tracks, each followed by a three-week intersession. Students typically attend three of the four tracks, using the remaining track as a flexible learning period or for remediation, acceleration, or enrichment activities. Intersessions offer opportunities for credit recovery, remediation, and specialized courses. For example, a student might complete Tracks 1, 2, and 4 in a traditional classroom setting, then use Track 3 for an internship or online course.
This multi-track system provides flexibility for students to personalize their learning journey and address individual needs. It can help prevent learning loss and provide extra support to students who need it. Historically, multi-track year-round calendars were introduced to address overcrowding in schools and maximize resource utilization. While this remains a factor, the focus has shifted towards leveraging this calendar structure for enhanced academic outcomes and providing a more personalized educational experience.