Huron School Board holds first reading of 2026–27 calendar after debate over Veterans Day and April testing week
Summary
Board took first reading of the 2026–27 calendar and debated whether to restore Veterans Day as a holiday and remove an April early-release day to preserve a solid testing week; item will return for second reading and final approval.
The Huron School District 02-2 Board of Education on Monday conducted a first reading of the draft 2026–27 school calendar and discussed whether Veterans Day should remain a school day and whether an early-release in April should be removed to protect testing schedules.
During discussion a board member who identified himself as a military veteran said he would prefer Veterans Day be observed as a holiday rather than a school day, and another board member voiced support for restoring the day off. Superintendent Dr. Steinhoff explained the calendar committee considered multiple factors, including negotiations affecting 12-month versus 10-month employees, and said changing the date may require further negotiations.
Director of curriculum Mrs. Peetz urged the board to remove one of the nine early-release days currently scheduled in April so the district would have a full week for standardized testing; several members indicated support for that change. Dr. Steinhoff said there is flexibility in the draft calendar to add or shift a day of instruction if the board chooses.
The board did not take a final vote; the calendar will come back to the board for a second reading and final approval at a future meeting.
