St Clair County Schools board debates two-year calendar, snow-day policy and blended learning

Board members and administrators spent substantial time debating calendar changes, snow-day handling and the role of blended (e-learning) days. A presenter outlined two calendar options, including a move to a two-year calendar and eliminating early-dismissal hours to reduce childcare burdens on families. The presenter stressed the plan was for discussion only and that no decisions would be made that night.

On snow days, the presenter proposed that the first two snow days be 'old fashioned' days off rather than e-learning days; if more snow days are required, the extra days would come off spring break. The presenter acknowledged that would inconvenience some families who schedule spring break travel.

Students and board members raised mixed views about e-learning days. Some students said e-learning feels like 'busy work,' while others said they appreciate the flexibility. An administrator said, "When my kids are at home on snow days, I tell them not to do their schoolwork. I want them to be kids on snow days," reflecting a preference for traditional snow days for some families and staff. Administrators and staff discussed potential changes to staff development scheduling, including front-loading staff development days and possible adjustments to the student-day count to accommodate additional staff time.

Board members agreed to continue the calendar discussion in a planned March work session; administrators asked for specific questions from board members to prepare proposals and data for that meeting.