Four-Day School Week for I.S.D. 166?

 

I.S.D. 166 is exploring the option of a four-day week. It is important that our district considers the impact such a scheduling change would have on student education.

Presently, four Minnesota districts, MCCRAY, Blackduck, Warroad, and Ogilvie, have four-day week schedules in place. Minnesota schools implementing the four-day week are reporting positive experiences from parents, students and staff. All four districts plan to continue with the four-day week calendars.

Some western states with sparse populations implemented the four-day school week to save on transportation costs. As data has been gathered, other benefits of the four-day week have become apparent, including improved student and employee attendance, staff morale and student attitude toward school. Additionally, lower drop-out rates, fewer classroom interruptions and discipline issues have been noted. Students also report being able to better manage part-time employment and academics.

In addition to the educational rewards there are definite, well documented financial benefits of the fourday week. However, it can not be stressed enough that cost savings will not be the driving force behind such a major change at I.S.D. 166. Cost savings are a secondary benefit. If the district is going to implement a four-day school week, the plan must be educationally sound.

During March, I.S.D 166 employees considered the pros and cons of the four-day week. Beginning in April, public meetings will be held to share information and give Cook County residents a chance to ask questions and share their opinions. In May, the district’s Academic Team will consider all of the information gathered and prepare a presentation for the school board.

The goal is for the I.S.D. 166 school board to make a decision in June 2010, regarding the implementation of a four-day school week, beginning the 2011-12 school year. This will give I.S.D. 166 fourteen months to carefully plan the details, to ensure students capitalize on all of the potential academic benefits.

Beth A. Schwarz began as School District 166 superintendent July 1, 2009. She will periodically share ISD166 news with News- Herald readers.