ATHENS — The Athens Independent School District will soon be switching to a four-day school week starting next school year.
The Athens ISD Board made the decision Friday afternoon at a special meeting. Only one board member voted against the proposal.
Starting August 5, 2019, the school will have classes between Monday and Thursday. Students' weekend will begin on Friday.
Several parents and district representatives spoke at the meeting both for and against the motion.
Among the chief concerns from parents were childcare on Fridays, the effects of the schedule on extracurricular activities and sports, and the doubt that the new schedule will actually help with district expectations including teacher recruiting and retention.
Another major concern would be adjusting commute plans with school hours extended for another 50 minutes. Elementary students would start the day at 7:45 a.m., and end at 3:55 p.m.. For middle school and high school students, the day would start at 8 and end at 4:25 p.m..
However, several teachers spoke positively for the plan. In a survey sent out to staff, parents and students at the district's secondary campuses last week, the district received 241 staff responses, many of which were in favor of the change. Administrators believe the 4-day instructional week will serve as a reason for teachers to be want to work for the district and stay long term.
For research, the district looked at more than 100 other school districts with four-day weeks from around the country, specifically those in neighboring states like Oklahoma and Colorado. Deputy Superintendent Dr. Janie Sims says despite the concerns, the four-day week plan will have long term benefits for students, teachers and supporting staff.