Making the Most of M-Block at Moeller

M-Block is a vital part of every student’s journey at Moeller High School. Not many high schools offer hour-and-a-half study halls multiple times a week, and that extra time can make a huge difference. When I was a freshman, I felt overwhelmed by the high school workload—I wasn’t used to having so much homework or studying for tests. M-Block was a game-changer for me. It gave me the chance to visit different classrooms and get help from teachers in the subjects I struggled with.

There are plenty of ways to use M-Block effectively. One option is staying in your mentor group to study or complete homework. Since mentor groups require students to put their phones away, it helps reduce distractions and encourages productivity. Another great option is seeking help from teachers. Personally, I found the most helpful part of M-Block to be the peer tutoring system. When I was struggling with pre-algebra as a freshman, Mr. Blum arranged for a junior in my mentor group to tutor me. Thanks to that support, I improved significantly in math.

Beyond academics, M-Block is also a time for building relationships. Spending time with my mentor group helped me grow closer to my classmates, and I even developed a stronger bond with Mr. Blum. I remember sitting by his desk and having long conversations that helped me feel more connected. When I interviewed him on Monday, I asked how he encourages students to stay focused during M-Block. He said he reminds everyone to avoid YouTube and video games and to concentrate on schoolwork. I also asked what he does during M-Block, and he shared that he grades assignments, answers student questions, keeps the mentor group on track, watches film on other teams, and works on devotional activities.

Seniors play a big role in supporting younger students during M-Block. During my junior year, I helped a freshman, BJ Harkness, with his German homework. He told me it made a big difference because learning from another student can make things easier to understand. Even now, I still stop by during M-Block to chat and joke around with the freshmen. There’s also flexibility—students can leave campus to take care of personal tasks. Some go home for a quick nap before practice, others head to the mall or grab food. My friend group has a tradition of going to Chuy’s every first M-Block of the week.

I also interviewed Sam Willis, a senior in my mentor group, about his experience with M-Block. When asked how it impacted his academics, he shared, “During freshman year biology, I was failing halfway through the first quarter. I didn’t take advantage of M-Block at that time, but after parent-teacher conferences, Mr. Thompson suggested I start using it to study and review. I began going to his room every M-Block, and my grade steadily improved. I ended the quarter with a 75, and by the end of the year, I had earned an A in every quarter except the first.”

Sam also spoke about the friendships he formed during M-Block: “When I first got to Moeller, I didn’t know anyone in our mentor group. After a few months of spending time together every day in mentor group and almost every other day during M-Block, we all got very close. I became especially close with Ben Wiesman, who’s been my best friend since freshman year.”

I also talked to Cooper McCutchan about how he uses M-Block. He said he lifts weights with the football team during every session to maintain strength and improve performance. He also visits the trainer regularly for stretching and cupping. Another unique opportunity during M-Block is “Chem Block,” a collaborative session led by Mr. Wynn, Mrs. Miller, and Mr. Conlan. They gather students struggling in chemistry to review material and answer questions.

There are endless possibilities during M-Block—it’s just up to you to take advantage of them.