For Schools Considering the Switch

We are often contacted by schools who are considering a switch to the four-day week.  These schools often ask if we have any resources that other schools have used to explore the transition.  Below you will find some resources that have been shared with us and may be helpful as examples from other school districts.   

General Tips for the Planning Process

1. Start with "why." Explain the reasons for the change early and often, especially to the roughly 70% of community members who do not have children in school and may see no direct benefit.

2. Involve those most affected. Gather input from families of children with special needs, school nurses, social workers, and staff who work with younger students.

3. Keep feedback grounded. Ask people how a four-day week would affect their own family's routines, not hypothetical situations.

4. Plan the fifth day deliberately. Decide how the day off will work - homework, athletics, extracurriculars, and which activities still meet that day.

5. Be clear about professional development. If the fifth day is used for teacher PD, say so early so it is not mistaken for personal time.

6. Treat the fifth day as an opportunity. Many districts use it for work-study, youth programs, clubs, or community service that keep students engaged.

7. Communicate openly, and do not dismiss concerns. Some families will be negatively affected by the change; hear them out and work with them.

Some Helpful Resources from Other Schools Planning Process (links)

Southern Boone County Schools 4 Day Resource Page

Parent, Student, Staff Survey from Houston Schools (Missouri) in Fall, 2024

Summary of 4 Day School Week Research (Fall 2024) from IES (Link)

Warren County (Warrenton) Missouri School Board Presentation (leading up to vote on four-day week)

Forsyth Parent Survey (prior to vote to go to four-day week)

Forsyth School Community Presentation

Ralls County Schools Staff/Faculty Benefit Changes (specifically documents potential changes made to sick day, vacation, and personal day policies)

Many school districts utilize the "5th Day" on a four-day school week for additional professional development opportunities for their staff.  A great model is "Maroon Monday" developed at the School Of The Osage.  Check out their "Maroon Monday" plan (beginning on page 30) here. 

Sample of Parent Survey We Used As Part of Our Research at Missouri State 

Eminence R-I Schools "Fifth Day Plan" for "RedWings Explorers Club"