The Advantages of a Four Day School Week

The current economic downfall has affected the quality of education for many Americans. As a result of the economic crisis, there has been an increase in class sizes, a decrease in educational resources, and a persistent decline in instructional positions offered each school year. Despite the weakened economy, school districts are working to provide a quality education, even if it means transitioning to a four-day school week. The overall effect of the four-day week remains debatable; however, there are numerous advantages to implementing the four-day school week.

Implementing a four-day school week can decrease the cost of maintaining school utilities, food often provided for staff and students, and fuel used to transport students to and from school. School districts can save up to twenty-percent of costs if resources are conserved properly. Additional funds can be used to hire more instructional staff as well as provide the necessary educational resources, resulting in an improved educational experience for students and staff.

Schools may use the fifth day of the week to provide professional development for staff and additional learning opportunities for students. If students cannot attend tutoring or specified programs during school hours, they have the additional day to seek assistance from teachers and peers, resulting in improved academic achievement. Likewise, teachers have the opportunity to advance their skills while collaborating with one another. The four-day week is also credited for improving academic performance due to extended class periods.

During the traditional school week, numerous student athletes miss a wealth of class time due to athletic events. However, districts that implement the four-day week may plan athletic events on the unscheduled day, leading to increased attendance and fewer disruptions to instructional time for students and staff.

Students and staff often miss school days to attend medical appointments and other significant events. However, the unscheduled day allows students and staff to attend these appointments without disrupting their attendance. Students and teachers also have the day to catch up on school-related assignments and responsibilities, allowing them to feel motivated and prepared each day they attend school.

Many parents often struggle to provide after-school care and supervision for their students. However, a four-day week requires an extended school day for students and staff. As a result of the additional instructional time, students will arrive home closer to the time of their parents, decreasing the overall need for after-school care and supervision. Additionally, parents appreciate having the opportunity to spend more time with their children.