Students in the fourth grade often enjoy the departmentalized system. Seeing so many teachers in one day increases the chances that there will be one or two teachers students get on well with. Also, elementary students have reported enjoying feeling 'grown-up' because they have the same kind of lessons as middle-school students. This can also make the transition from elementary to middles school much less intimidating for students.
Some elementary school principals are drawn to departmentalization as a way to get the best teachers. Teachers are able to develop an in-depth grasp of particular fourth grade topics because they can concentrate their research on only a few areas. Teachers feel more confident because they only have to teach the subjects they are very familiar with, meaning a more economical use of preparation time.
One of the advantages of having one teacher for multiple subjects is that the teacher finds it easier to establish a bond with his or her students, and to learn the individual needs and idiosyncrasies of particular students. In the departmentalized classroom, teachers see different groups of students throughout the day so it is harder to build relationships and the students can feel less secure in their learning environment. A few studies have shown that this phenomenon leads directly to poorer student performance.
If a school is thinking about implementing a departmentalized structure in the fourth grade then it is important to follow a consultative procedure. The principal should hold several meeting to discuss any proposed changes with parents, allowing the teachers to explain the benefits of departmentalization and to answer any concerns parents may have. Administrators should be informed and be involved in the planning of the new system. In most states, the superintendent will have to approve the project before any changes can be implemented. This will require submitting a comprehensive application, containing a detailed synopsis of all the changes, an appraisal of the legal requirements, letters of support from parents and among other documents which vary in each state.