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Emporia board adopts 2026–27 academic calendar Option C after debate over PLT timing

Emporia USD 253 Board of Education · December 10, 2025
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Summary

After reviewing community survey results, the board adopted Option C for the 2026–27 academic calendar (monthly full PLT days) by a 7–0 vote; members raised concerns about weekly disruptions and differences between elementary and secondary preferences.

The Emporia USD 253 Board voted unanimously to adopt Option C for the 2026–27 academic calendar, the staff-recommended schedule that replaces some weekly late-start PLT time with monthly full PLT days.

District staff presented results from a community survey of 541 respondents showing 62% favored Option C (monthly full PLT days) and 38% preferred Option A (late-start PLT days). Staff broke down responses by building and role, noting differences: elementary respondents tended to prefer Option C, while secondary staff favored Option A. Staff said Option C slightly reduces total school contact days and requires modestly longer school days to meet instructional-minute requirements.

Board members debated trade-offs: members cited transportation and childcare implications for late-start models, the scheduling burden for secondary schools with large enrollments, and concerns that Option C disrupts some weeks more than others. Board Member (Speaker 9) moved to adopt Option C; the motion passed 7–0.

Staff said further work on start and end times and transportation logistics will continue with the calendar committee, which will include parent representatives to help assess childcare and scheduling impacts.