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Gadsden ISD board adopts 2025-26 school calendar after split stakeholder vote
Summary
The Gadsden Independent Schools Board of Education voted to adopt Calendar A for the 2025–26 school year after hearing about stakeholder survey results, state timing uncertainty over a 180‑day requirement and impacts on professional development and summer programs.
The Gadsden Independent Schools Board of Education voted Thursday to adopt “Option A” for the 2025–26 academic calendar, approving the calendar after trustees heard district staff summarize stakeholder survey results and statewide legal uncertainty about the 180‑day requirement.
Superintendent Dempsey and academic services leader Mr. Wolgemuth presented two calendar drafts and said both would likely be compliant with any final guidance from the New Mexico Public Education Department once pending litigation is resolved. Mr. Wolgemuth told the board the two options differ mainly in semester length, the timing of parent‑teacher conferences and the district’s ability to secure national professional development presenters early in the school year.
The board heard that a recent stakeholder voting window ran seven days and produced a split preference: staff tended to favor Calendar A while parents slightly favored Calendar B. Mr. Wolgemuth said Calendar A’s earlier start gives the district better access to in‑demand presenters and allows more planning time for staff; Calendar B would push the school year later and could affect jump‑start and summer school start dates.
Trustee Morales moved to adopt Calendar A. Superintendent Dempsey recommended the same option, citing improved access to Marzano and other national presenters, and the board approved the motion by voice vote.
Board members discussed potential fallout from a recent court ruling that struck down a strict 180‑day rule and noted the Legislature and PED may clarify days vs. hours while session work continues. Trustees asked staff to monitor legislation and to communicate any changes to families.
The board approved Calendar A with no recorded opposing votes.
The district will publish the adopted 2025–26 calendar and notify campuses so families and staff can plan for the confirmed start, breaks and graduation dates.
