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Board tables 2026–27 calendar after debate over four‑day week and union negotiations
Summary
The Coastal Public Schools Board postponed action on a proposed 2026–27 calendar after extended discussion about a four‑day versus hybrid schedule and whether approval would trigger collective bargaining negotiations; trustees asked staff to return with two calendar options and an MOU.
The Coastal Public Schools Board of Trustees on Tuesday debated whether to adopt a four‑day school week or approve a hybrid calendar for the 2026–27 school year and ultimately moved to table the calendar item until the next board meeting.
Staff member (speaker 2) presented a hybrid calendar she said "meets the current CBA for the required amount of hours" and includes additional professional development days and some Fridays off. Board members and meeting participants pressed how a four‑day calendar would affect the duty day for staff and whether it would automatically trigger broader contract negotiations with local unions.
Committee member (speaker 4) raised the board's understanding from recent negotiations: "If we approved a 4 day calendar, it would automatically trigger negotiations" over duty day and salary, a point repeated by several trustees and staff. Meeting participant (speaker 6), who spoke from the perspective of union members during the discussion, said an MOU might be a way to pilot a change while ironing out longer‑term bargaining issues.
Trustees emphasized both community interest and the practical hurdles. Board members cited survey results they said showed roughly 75% preference for a four‑day option, while others said the district still lacks an "actionable 4‑day calendar" ready for approval and warned of timetable and implementation burdens.
Committee member (speaker 7) proposed bringing two concrete calendars — a hybrid and a four‑day option — to the next agenda, accompanied by an MOU or confirmation from the CFA if the four‑day option is to proceed. Speaker 7 moved to table agenda item 8.1 "and bring it back in our next meeting," a motion the board seconded and approved by voice vote.
Why it matters: A four‑day school week would change daily schedules, affect bargaining unit duties and could require adjustments to contract hours and pay. Trustees asked staff to return with the two calendar options and any necessary MOUs so the board can evaluate implementation details before taking a final vote.
