School Daze

It's official.

Kennett is going to a four day school week.

Needless to say, there's been a lot of discussion on the matter.

It got me to wondering how it all started.

Were schools always on a five day a week schedule?

Here's what I found.

Children did not always go to school five days a week.

Before the 20th century, school attendance could be inconsistent, with some children only attending a few days a week due to factors like farm work or family needs.

So, not a new concept.

At least 24 states have at least one school district using a four day school week, and that number is continuing to grow.

It's definitely favored in rural areas where schools face budgetary constraints and staff shortages.

A four day school week would certainly cut down on costs, such as transportation.

There's also the debate that it improves teacher retention and job satisfaction.

I think the jury is still out on that notion.

Is it the right move?

That remains to be seen.

The main focus is to adopt a strategy that best serves our students.

We want the best outcomes for our children.

Which choice is the right choice, a five or four day school week?

Perhaps there is no clearcut choice.

Perhaps it's whichever choice meets your community's needs.

Prayerfully, we've made the right decision.

See you out there.