How Illinois Parents Really Feel About 4-Day School Weeks

As summer nears the end, school is almost back in session around the country.  Some school districts have switched to 4-day school weeks and parents had a lot to say.

I've only ever known 5-day school weeks and 5-day work weeks.  That's just how the world has worked for... forever.  So, what's this talk about "4-day school weeks"?  Many parents are on the fence about it because it wouldn't coincide with their work schedule.

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In roughly nine states, they've already implemented this new schedule.

"Most of the nation’s 13,000 public school districts in the U.S. still open their doors to students five days a week. But in recent years, just shy of 1,000 districts in states like Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, and Texas have moved to a four-day weekly schedule, often dropping either Monday or Friday." [edweek]

 

In Illinois, it doesn't seem like this change is coming anytime soon.  And if it is, not many parents, guardians, and teachers are behind the idea.

How Illinois Parents Really Feel About 4-Day School Weeks

"I say no. A large number of our student population (as a nation) is reading below grade level. Us teachers have a lot to get done and not enough time to get to it all as it is!" - Kymbre C.

"As a teacher I love the idea…but there would need to be a childcare option for the 5th day!" Caitlin B.

"Unless it will coincide with predominantly 4 day work weeks then no" - Donna K.

Majority ruled that it wouldn't make sense unless parents were also given a 4-day work week.  Who would be watching their kids while they work? Would parents be paid on that 5th day, too?  There were so many concerns and a lot to consider.

The top comment on the Facebook discussion has a really good point!

"Whoa whoa whoa let’s first talk about four day work weeks before we give these little kids a break. They haven’t even earned it yet lol" - Yve H.

It's time for you to weigh in.  Should Illinois schools transition to a 4-day school week?