Parent urges Kentucky schools to reconsider NTI days for better student education

The Muhlenberg County Schools board meeting on April 18, 2025, featured significant discussions regarding Non-Traditional Instruction (NTI) days, with parents expressing concerns about their impact on students' education.

One parent, who spoke passionately about the issue, highlighted the challenges NTI days create for families, teachers, and students. She emphasized that not all children have equal support at home, which can hinder their ability to complete NTI assignments effectively. The parent argued that elementary students, in particular, require structured guidance from adults, which is often lacking during NTI days. She pointed out that reducing a school day to a few worksheets does not provide the necessary educational environment, especially for students needing special support services.

The speaker also shared her personal struggles with balancing work and assisting her children with NTI assignments. She described the logistical difficulties of relaying instructional messages from teachers to her children while managing her job responsibilities. This situation, she noted, leads to exhaustion and frustration for both parents and students, ultimately detracting from the learning experience.

Furthermore, she raised concerns about the number of NTI days used by the district, noting that 13 days had been implemented that year. She questioned the effectiveness of NTI work, asking whether it was being evaluated for quality or merely counted as completed. The parent urged the board to reconsider the use of NTI days as a substitute for traditional instruction, advocating for making up missed school days with in-person classes instead.

In conclusion, she stressed the importance of providing the best education possible for students, arguing that NTI days do not contribute positively to educational outcomes. The meeting underscored a growing sentiment among parents that traditional classroom instruction is essential for student success, particularly in light of Kentucky's educational rankings.

The discussion on NTI days is expected to continue as the board considers the implications for student learning and overall educational quality in the district.