Four-day school week proposed in northern Minnesota district

Leaders of a northern Minnesota school district are asking for feedback from families on a proposal to implement a four-day school week as soon as next year.

The Carlton School District Superintendent Donita Stepan unveiled the proposal earlier this month, as first reported by the Pine Knot News.

Before the Board of Education meeting on Monday, April 15, district leaders will hold the last of three quickly-scheduled public hearings to hear feedback on the plan.

A presentation shared the district's website bills the proposed change as a chance for the district to challenge to status quo and do something "different, unique, [and] innovative."

"We believe that a flexible calendar will give our students more time live life...to explore...to breathe...to try new things," the presentation reads.

According to the district proposal , the four-day week stands to improve mental health, bolster staff retention and recruitment efforts, improve attendance, reduce operational costs and more.

Teachers would still attend school five days a week, with the flexible schedule offering more time for planning, required meetings and more, the draft proposal states.

Under the draft proposal, breakfast and lunch would still be available for all students five days a week and daycare would be available for elementary students at $4 per hour on the non-school day.

If district leaders advance the plan, an application to the Minnesota Department of Education will need to filed by April 22.

According to the Pine Knot News , the districts in Silver Bay and Two Harbors already practice a shortened week.

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