A Four Day School Week

by KYW's Dr. Marciene Mattleman

Working parents cringe at the idea of a four day school week, according to an Associated Press article. How to get adequate and reasonable care for their kids? Can young children take a longer day?

These are valid questions, yet school administrators argue that by eliminating a day of classes through extending the school day, they could save lots of money on utilities and transportation.
 
New Mexico was the first state to introduce this plan in the 1970s, citing the oil crisis. Now, with an economic downturn, more states are considering such a change. School districts in 17 states have moved to a shorter week and Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Maine, Missouri and Washington are considering similar actions.

Research has shown that the four day schedule doesn’t hinder student achievement and that it might even help test scores. Fewer disciplinary problems and more classroom participation has been reported.

Advocates believe attendance can improve and the shorter week can increase teacher retention. More study is needed with regard to academic cost savings.  Stay tuned…