The Edutopia Poll by Sara Ring addresses the topic, Is a four day school week more beneficial than the typical five day school week? With the cost of fuel for busing and the cost of heat and electricity, many schools are going to a four day school week. Living in mid-Michigan several school districts are looking for ways to save money in the harsh winters. Some districts have gone to a four day week every other week to save on heat and electricity. Others have looked to extend the day longer to meet hour requirements, but reduce the number of days in school.
I can relate to both sides of the argument of parents and teachers. In an elementary school, thinking about working parents, that is a whole day for a parent to take off of work or to find child care. On the other hand, by extending the length of the day provides more opportunities for block core instruction with fewer interruptions for special classes.
The real question is, Are the students still receiving meaningful instruction? Is the money the schools are saving substantial enough to make a difference in the budgets?
No comments:
Post a Comment