Four-Day School Week
Background of the Four-Day Decision
Professional development will happen every other Monday. The four-day week creates more built-in time for professional development. Principals, instructional coaches and teacher leaders will schedule how they want staff to use that time, using our professional development goals as a guide. Four-day work weeks give organizations a competitive edge when recruiting and retaining staff. Lower teacher retention percentages have been shown to greatly impact the scholastic performance of students. Studies have shown that students who are subject to higher teacher turnover suffer in terms of achievement gains. There is no research showing a correlation between more time in the classroom resulting in a better education.
Why Monday?
Friday feels like a day off. Monday feels like a day to be professional and prepare for students. It accounts for a few Monday holidays we would be off anyway and allows high schools to continue with Friday sports and activities as usual.
Why Make the Change to a Four-Day School Week?
Teacher Recruitment
We would like to attract a larger pool of applicants for our job postings. The nation is experiencing a teacher shortage and we need to bring in quality candidates.
Teacher Effectiveness
We believe this would create a clean, concise, and consistent schedule. This schedule would give teachers and staff time to better prepare for classes and to develop professionally.
Teacher Retention
Our goal is to build strong bonds with students through long-lasting relationships. This initiative will encourage quality teachers and staff to come to and stay in Cardinal Community School District.
Student Achievement
Research tells us that teachers are the number one factor affecting student achievement; we strive to maximize student potential.
School Times & Calendar
Modified 4-Day 2022-23 District Calendar
Questions
If you have any questions or comments about the proposed four-day school week, please email us at 4dayweek@cardinalcomet.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can losing this many days of school be positive for children?
The number of school days will change but the instructional hours will be the same or very close to the current calendar by adding approximately 20 to 25 minutes to the day.
When does the school year end?
The school year would end before June 1st. We would make-up snow days if needed.
How long is the school day?
- Elementary - 8:00 a.m. - 3:40 p.m.
- Secondary - 8:00 a.m. - 3:47 p.m.
Which day of the week will be a no student day?
Monday
Why would Cardinal be exploring this?
Moving to a four-day school week:
- is a great recruiting tool for attracting and hiring new teachers and retaining current teachers for our students
- improves school culture and reduces absences for students and staff
- boosts student and teacher morale
- allows teachers more time for planning and collaboration to prepare and support our students and their learning
What does the research say about student achievement and a four-day school week?
Most research does not show a positive or negative impact on student achievement.
How much money would be saved with a four-day schedule?
Our number one goal is not to save money. We do see potential cost savings on fuel costs and savings on substitute teacher costs.
What about daycare on no school days?
The district has not made a decision on this need. Parents will be surveyed and the district will consider this option.
What about Preschool?
Preschool will continue to operate four days a week regardless of any changes with a day week.
