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Rockville School Board approves 2026–27 modified year‑round calendar after debate over transportation and funding
Summary
The Rockville School Board voted 6–1 to adopt the 2026–27 modified year‑round school calendar after trustees debated transportation, athletics conflicts and whether proposed nontraditional‑break programs are truly "budget neutral."
The Rockville School Board on Oct. 28 approved a modified 2026–27 year‑round calendar that its presenters said meets the state minimum of 180 student days and 190 staff days, and adds two unencumbered start‑of‑year days.
Lorraine Lundy, who introduced the proposal alongside Superintendent Arthur Belcher, told trustees the calendar “meets the 180 student days and 190 days staff days along with every other important guideline” and that the first week back now includes unencumbered days on Tuesday, July 28 and Friday, July 31.
The proposal also includes a draft design for limited, budget‑neutral programming during nontraditional breaks (October and February) intended for students identified by academic need. Lundy said the draft would rely on repurposed staff and available funding streams, including allowable USDA meal reimbursements, and would be optional for families.
Trustees questioned which subjects and grade levels would be targeted for the nontraditional‑break offerings. Lundy said the district’s primary data sources pointed to English language arts, mathematics and science, and that exact grade targets would be determined after spring assessment data.
Several board members pushed for clearer commitments on transportation and funding. One trustee said they remained opposed, stating, “My opposition to this calendar will remain,” citing concerns that families without transportation could be disadvantaged by four‑hour program days. Others urged staff to pursue funding solutions during the district’s budget season.
A motion to adopt the calendar, made by Mr. Burns and seconded by Ms. Daniel, carried 6–1.
What happens next: District staff said they will continue planning the optional break programming and report back with more detailed proposals and any budget implications during the budget process.
