Seeking Feedback Regarding Proposed Change In Start Date
June 9, 2020
Last month, Governor Reynolds signed a proclamation allowing school districts to begin the school year before August 23, 2020. The District recognizes this pandemic has significantly impacted our students, staff, and community. As a result of our time away this year, we feel it would be beneficial to provide our students with additional time in the upcoming school year to help identify and work toward closing potential learning gaps.
In an effort to better support students, the District, along with the Bondurant-Farrar Educator’s Association (BFEA), are proposing revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar by adding five student contact days. Under this plan, the first day with students would be Monday, August 17, 2020. (Click here to view the proposed calendar.)
When surveyed, 90% of our teachers agreed with the calendar change. This support demonstrates the strong commitment our teachers have for our students. Additionally, we want to acknowledge our teachers who collaborated with hard, diligent work to put together great remote learning opportunities for our students during the extended closure. Our buildings were closed, but learning continued.
Before the board can consider this recommendation, we are asking for feedback from our families to share with the board. Understanding some families may not wish to attend the meeting in person, an electronic form is available for feedback. (Click here to submit feedback electronically.) Responses are due by June 15 at noon. If you wish to appear in person, the public hearing will be held during the school board meeting on June 15, beginning at 5pm in the library at the high school. Please note the location change due to construction.
We understand an August 17 start date may cause schedule issues for some families. In the event this change is approved, staff will work directly with families whose students are unable to attend the additional week. We anticipate a board decision to be made on June 15 and results will be communicated after the meeting.
