[JaneYoung]

This will probably not be a popular suggestion. I'm basing it on some productive administrative discussions we've had regarding topics that could have affected the team negatively -both short term and long term - but didn't because of our approach.
It is wise not to back anyone into a corner trying to force a decision. If you are pursuing something with your school powers that be - always use diplomacy and understand what they are saying to you. Sometimes we listen but don't hear, make sure that is not happening. What you want to do is not necessarily something they will see as more important than the classes the students will miss and have to try to make up. You have to be prepared both in presenting your request and in understanding their concerns.

Our students will struggle this year to make up their classes they miss due to block scheduling. In the magnet program they are in, absences have to be looked at very carefully when making these decisions.

Good luck with pursuing your requests.