Candidates split on the four-day school week; some cite staffing gains, others call for five-day return

Candidates at the Emmett School District forum gave mixed assessments of the district's four-day school week.

Terry Jones said the district has benefited and credited the four-day week with helping hire higher-quality staff: "Before the 4 day came into being, we were...hiring teachers that required a provisional. Today...we hired a new principal...well over 15 applicants for it and quality applicants." Jones said the impact on student achievement "remains to be seen" but he said his support stems from improved staff recruitment.

Clay Smith said he and his family have personally benefited, praising the extra day for family and outdoor activities, but he said the decision should ultimately be made by the community: "I don't think the school board has any business voting on that...I think that's a community vote, that parents and teachers should decide." Rick Johnston said he has "no skin in the game" and would look to outcome data and public feedback to guide decisions. Mona Barnes said she does not believe the district has benefited from the four-day week and said she would "go back to the 5 day school week," adding that students told her they "still forget everything that you taught me on Friday. Now you're gonna give me an extra day."

Why it matters: The four-day week is tied to teacher recruitment, family schedules and instructional time. Candidates' positions suggest it could be an issue for voters if board action or public referenda are required.

No formal policy decision was made at the forum; candidates described the evidence and trade-offs they would weigh if serving on the board.