Marisa Green knew sixth grade was not going to be easy. On the first day of class, Principal Hedges told the students of a radical change to their schedule. The school day was going to be extended until 5:00 p.m. Students would now spend 8 hours in class each day, instead of 6.

Principal Hedges explained that most American students attend school 180 days per year. But in some countries, such as China and Japan, students attend school for many more days each school year. Test scores suggest that U.S. students may not be in school enough. In 2015, fifteen-year-olds from the U.S. scored lower on an international math test than students in 39 other developed countries. Principal Hedges said students need to spend more time learning in school if Americans want to compete in the global economy. Rather than adding additional days to the school year, people such as Principal Hedges suggest a longer school day for students.

The late Senator Edward “Ted” Kennedy also supported extending the school day. He proposed an initiative that was tested in Massachusetts. Schools that were part of this initiative added about two extra hours to every school day. In some schools, students spent the extra time on Mondays through Thursdays focusing on academics. They used the extra time on Fridays for enrichment activities, such as art or music. People who support an extended school day believe it is crucial for students who need extra time to attain grade-level reading and math skills. Some parents also prefer the longer school day because it fits better with their work schedules.

Other people think extending the school day is the wrong choice. Schools would need more money to stay open longer because they would have to pay for extra materials, salaries for teachers and staff, and more.

Many teachers already work long hours outside of school grading and preparing lessons, and many students spend significant time after school studying and doing homework. Opponents of the extended school day suggest that just adding hours will be overwhelming for teachers and students and may not make a difference in student achievement. Instead, they argue that we should focus on improving school quality first, rather than extending the day.

Some parents oppose the extended school day because they want their children to have time for after-school activities. Students may participate in sports, music, or clubs. These parents may also worry that their children will not have enough time to relax, play, or spend time with their family. Opponents of extended school days may point to the importance of sleep for teens’ mental health and success in school. They may worry that students will not go to bed early enough if they do not have enough time in the evenings for activities, homework, and relaxing.

What is your opinion? Should schools extend the school day to improve students’ attainment of crucial academic skills? Or is this the wrong choice for American students?