GUNTER ISD board approves three-year four-day school week pilot starting 2025–26

The GUNTER ISD Board of Trustees voted to approve participation in a three-year four-day school calendar pilot beginning with the 2025–26 school year after extended discussion about benefits and risks.

Trustees, principals and committee members raised a mix of operational and educational concerns: several speakers worried that shortening the week could risk losing teachers to neighboring districts, while principals highlighted potential benefits such as improved staff morale, more concentrated professional development time on Fridays and extra family time for students. One trustee summarized the retention concern, saying the board must be mindful not to "run people off who are really good teachers" if the district adopts a calendar other districts do not.

Speakers emphasized the need for clear metrics and backstops. Board members asked staff to track attendance, student performance indicators (MAP testing and other outcomes), teacher turnover and targeted midyear reviews. A committee member recommended a multi-year pilot with periodic surveys and outcome reporting so the board could reverse course if indicators trended poorly.

The board recorded the motion and voice vote to proceed. "Is there a motion to approve participating in a 4 day school calendar pilot program for the 3 years beginning 20 25, 20 26 school year?" the Chair asked; the motion was approved by voice vote ('Aye'). Staff said they will develop monitoring metrics, professional-development scheduling for Fridays and childcare coordination options for families who need support.