School Board approves 2025-2026 calendar with post Labor Day start and Veterans Day debate

During the Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) Board Meeting on March 11, 2025, significant discussions centered around the proposed academic calendar for the 2025-2026 school year, particularly the decision to start classes after Labor Day. This recommendation, developed by the school calendar committee, reflects community feedback and aims to balance academic needs with local preferences.

Superintendent McCourt emphasized the importance of community input in shaping the calendar, which includes designated school closures for Autumn Glory Friday, Thanksgiving Monday, and Easter Monday, while maintaining Veterans Day as an instructional day. The committee believes that having students in school on Veterans Day allows for educational activities that honor veterans, which may not occur if students are off.

However, the decision to keep Veterans Day as a school day sparked debate among board members. One member expressed strong support for making Veterans Day a holiday, citing community feedback and personal conversations that indicated a preference for a day off. This prompted a motion to amend the calendar to include Veterans Day as a non-school day.

The discussion highlighted differing perspectives on the educational value of observing Veterans Day in school versus the importance of honoring veterans with a day off. Some board members argued that school activities on Veterans Day provide essential learning opportunities about the significance of the day, while others felt that a day off would better respect veterans and allow families to participate in community events.

As the board deliberated, it became clear that the decision on Veterans Day would require careful consideration of both educational objectives and community sentiments. The meeting concluded with a call for further discussion on the proposed calendar and the potential amendment regarding Veterans Day, underscoring the board's commitment to balancing educational priorities with community values. The outcome of this debate will shape the school calendar and reflect the community's stance on honoring veterans in the coming academic year.