Medford School Committee approves 2025-2026 calendar with new professional development days

Medford Public Schools has made significant strides in enhancing educational experiences for students and staff during its recent Regular MSC Meeting on April 16, 2025. A key highlight was the approval of the school calendar for the 2025-2026 academic year, which introduces notable changes aimed at improving instructional time and professional development.

The new calendar eliminates six half days, converting them into full school days, while adding two additional professional development days for staff. This decision reflects the district's commitment to maximizing classroom time and supporting teacher growth, as emphasized by committee members during the meeting. The first day of school is set for August 27, 2025, with new teachers reporting earlier in mid-August.

In addition to the calendar changes, the meeting addressed the scheduling of religious holidays. The district is proposing to remain open on certain holidays, including Rosh Hashanah and Good Friday, while allowing students who observe these days to take them off under existing provisions. This approach aims to balance educational requirements with the diverse needs of the community.

The committee also discussed the importance of community input in determining holiday observances, with past consultations informing the decisions made. The leadership expressed gratitude for the community's patience during the calendar development process, acknowledging the complexities involved in aligning educational needs with state regulations.

As Medford Public Schools moves forward, these changes are expected to foster a more effective learning environment, benefiting both students and educators alike. The district remains committed to ongoing dialogue with stakeholders to ensure that future policies reflect the community's values and needs.