Board approves two-year alternative calendar for four-day week in Wyoming schools

The Campbell County School District Board of Trustees convened on March 11, 2025, to discuss several key issues, including personnel contracts and the approval of alternative school calendars.

The meeting began with a proposal regarding the contracts for directors and principals for the upcoming school year. Superintendent Eisenhower recommended the approval of these contracts, which was supported by the board. However, a request for additional time to review job roles led to the decision to table the item until April 8, allowing board members to gather more information.

Another significant topic was the discussion surrounding the alternative school calendar. The board had previously considered a four-day school week, but the proposal was withdrawn by Travis Heitman from Rosette, who opted to focus on a traditional five-day schedule. The board received updates on new rules from the Wyoming Department of Education regarding alternative schedules, which require applications to be submitted by April rather than May. This change necessitated a prompt decision from the board to ensure compliance.

The board ultimately approved the continuation of the four-day week for several schools, including Wright Junior Senior High, Little Powder River, and Westwood High School, for a two-year period. This decision was met with mixed feelings among board members, with some expressing concerns about academic performance and the need for ongoing evaluation of the four-day schedule's impact on student learning.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the board's commitment to reviewing personnel decisions and adapting school schedules to meet community needs while also addressing academic performance concerns. The next steps include revisiting the personnel contracts in April and monitoring the effects of the alternative calendar on student achievement.