Dreaming Summit teachers voice concerns over proposed school schedule changes

The Litchfield Elementary School District 79 Board Meeting held on March 6, 2025, focused on significant changes to school start times and organizational structure, drawing attention from educators and board members alike.

During the meeting, a teacher from Dreaming Summit expressed concerns regarding the proposed time change for the upcoming academic year. The teacher highlighted the potential disruptions to family life and childcare for educators, emphasizing that many teachers have established relationships and specialized knowledge that could be lost if they are forced to transfer schools due to scheduling conflicts. The emotional and professional impacts of such changes were underscored, as the teacher urged the board to consider the voices of those directly affected.

In response, Dr. Davidson and Dr. Stone presented the rationale behind the proposed changes, which aim to align school schedules for better transportation efficiency and consistent instructional time across elementary and middle schools. The proposed end time of 3:30 PM is intended to alleviate issues with late bus arrivals and improve overall service for families and students. The board acknowledged the complexities involved in the scheduling process and the need for effective communication with families and staff regarding the changes.

Board members discussed the implications of the time shift, noting that while some families may benefit from the adjustments, others would face challenges. They emphasized the importance of proactive communication to help families adapt to the new schedules. The board ultimately voted to approve the new start times for the 2025-2026 school year, recognizing the necessity of balancing various stakeholder needs.

Additionally, the board reviewed a revised organizational chart, proposing to change the titles of certain executive positions to assistant superintendents. This change aims to align the district's structure with common practices in the educational community without increasing administrative costs. Board members expressed support for the title changes, viewing them as a step toward enhancing the district's organizational clarity and future recruitment efforts.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue discussions on these topics, ensuring that the community remains informed and engaged as the district moves forward with these significant changes.