Plymouth County Education Board rejects further study on four-day school week

In a recent Klamath County School Board meeting, discussions centered around the controversial topic of transitioning to a four-day school week. As board members gathered, the atmosphere was charged with concern over the potential impacts on student outcomes. One board member, reflecting on extensive research, expressed skepticism about the benefits of such a shift, stating, “We’re really not seeing large benefits around these student outcomes, and if anything, we’re seeing negative outcomes.”

The conversation highlighted the historical context of this proposal, recalling that the idea was initially considered during a budget crisis in 2009 as a cost-saving measure. At that time, the district faced significant financial challenges, leading to layoffs of teachers and counselors. However, the current financial landscape appears more stable, prompting questions about the necessity of revisiting the four-day week.

Concerns were raised about the implications of longer school days, with one member noting that having students away from home for over 12 hours could be detrimental. The board member recommended against further exploration of the four-day week, emphasizing that previous studies did not demonstrate any clear advantages for students in Plymouth County.

The meeting also touched on logistical aspects of the current schedule, including early dismissals on Fridays. While there was some discussion about aligning athletic events to minimize school absences, the board clarified that the calendar is not a mandatory subject of bargaining, which limits the scope of negotiations regarding the school week structure.

As the meeting concluded, the board's decision to maintain the traditional five-day school week seemed to resonate with many members, reflecting a cautious approach to educational reform in Klamath County. The discussions underscored the importance of prioritizing student well-being and academic success over potential financial savings.