OVERVIEW / WHY

The USD 111 Board of Education began discussing the possibility of a 4-day school week in June of 2023 after finding it difficult to find teacher candidates.  There is current research that provides evidence of an increase in teacher recruitment and retention in those districts that have moved to a 4-day student week.  The discussion began around how a 4-day week might help the district increase the number of applicants for our teacher positions.  While this was the initial "why" of how the discussion started, many other "whys" were discussed in the following months.

In September, the Kansas City Star reported that 71 districts in Kansas are currently on a 4-day student week.  The article can be found by clicking here.  As the movement continues across the nation, the board continues to discuss whether it is right for our community, parents, staff, and students.