Exploring the Advantages of a 4-Day School Week
COCISD is exploring the option of a 4-Day Instructional Week
Texas is experiencing a statewide teacher shortage, particularly in rural areas. Rural school districts in Texas can not compete with the pay and benefits packages offered by larger districts. Just like the rest of the state, the shortage is affecting COCISD. In order to achieve our goal of recruiting and retaining the highest quality teachers for our students, we will have to think outside the box.
In a growing trend that has proven successful in other districts across the nation and particularly in rural school districts in Texas, the transition to a 4-day school week has proven to be an effective recruiting/retaining tool not only for teachers but for all staff. It has also proven to positively affect student and staff morale and resulted in improved student test scores and improved student behavior. A study led by researcher Emily Norton showed that districts with shorter school weeks experience significant decreases in bullying and fighting rates.
Survey Results
To gain insight from stakeholders, we issued surveys in September for parents and guardians, staff members, and high school students. The following is an overview of the results.
Percentages of respondents who favor a 4-day school week:
Parents/Guardians (538 responses) - 74%
Staff (208 responses) - 73%
High School Students (325 responses) - 78.5%
Percentages of respondents who prefer a Monday - Thursday schedule
Parents/Guardians - 57%
Staff - 57%
Percentages of respondents who prefer a Tuesday - Friday schedule
Students - 49.5% (17% had no preference)
What will a 4-Day Instructional Calendar look like?
We are currently working on two calendar drafts, one with Fridays off and one with Mondays off. Teachers and staff would work one Friday or Monday a month for planning and/or professional development. These drafts will be presented at a Town Hall Meeting at the Jones Educational Complex Auditorium on Monday, Oct. 17, starting at 6:30 p.m.
PowerPoint Presented at Town Hall Meeting on Oct. 17
If you are having trouble viewing the document, you may download the document.