BCPS Board proposes amended school calendar to address recent disruptions

During the recent Bullitt County Public Schools (BCPS) Board of Education meeting held on February 24, 2025, significant adjustments to the school calendar were proposed in response to a series of disruptions caused by early voting, illness, and severe winter weather. The recommendations aim to ensure that students meet the required instructional days mandated by the Kentucky Department of Education.

The meeting highlighted that schools were closed on October 31 and November 1 due to early voting, prompting a shift in the calendar. The fourth bullet day, originally scheduled for November 4, was moved to October 31, while a professional development day on May 20 was rescheduled to November 1. This change resulted in an additional school closure on November 4 for the presidential election, necessitating the makeup of two instructional days, which are now planned for May.

In light of recent weather-related closures, including nine days lost to flooding and illness, the board proposed moving another bullet day from March 10 to May 30. March 10 will now serve as an instructional day, allowing students to regain valuable classroom time. The adjustments mean that the last day of school could be moved up to May 29, rather than June 10, provided that no further closures occur.

The discussion also addressed the impact of these changes on Advanced Placement (AP) exams and the ACT, which are fixed dates that cannot be adjusted. The rescheduling aims to provide students with additional instructional time before these critical assessments, which are essential for college credit and admissions.

Looking ahead, the district retains three Non-Traditional Instruction (NTI) days that can be utilized if further weather disruptions occur, particularly as meteorologists predict potential challenges in early March and the upcoming spring storm season. The proposed calendar amendments are seen as a proactive measure to restore consistency and support student learning amid ongoing challenges.

The board's approval of these changes is anticipated to be well-received by parents and the community, reflecting a commitment to maintaining educational standards despite the hurdles faced this academic year.