Around A Dozen East Texas School Districts Have Joined In On The Movement To Reduce School Weeks.

I'm in my 40s and we wished we didn't have to school 5 days a week but it was the standard and the norm. Its becoming more and more clear to this observer that since we're "the adults" now, we can make the world into what we wanted it to be for us, but our kids get to enjoy the benefits.

Texas schools are increasingly adopting four-day school weeks, sparking debates about educational efficiency and student well-being. While several districts here in East Texas have already made the move, another one voted unanimously this week to make the move.

Gladewater ISD board of trustees unanimously made the decision on Monday.

Unlike other districts that decided on having a four-day school week with Fridays off, the district of Gladewater will not be in session Mondays of the coming school year.

Proponents argue it saves costs and boosts teacher morale, allowing more time for planning and professional development. Yet, critics voice concerns over potential negative impacts on academic performance, childcare arrangements, and equitable access to education, particularly for vulnerable students.

The school board president said this will help attract and retain teachers, giving them more flexibility in their personal lives.

Gladewater ISD joins the list of other ETX School districts that have gone to 4 day school weeks:

• Alto
• Apple Springs
• Athens
• Corrigan-Camden
• DeKalb
• Elkhart
• Frankston
• Grapeland
• Kennard
• New Boston
• New Diana
• New Summerfield
• Overton
• Rusk
• Timpson

While some districts cite positive outcomes like improved attendance and reduced discipline issues, others caution against hasty decisions, emphasizing the need for thorough evaluation and community engagement.

The shift reflects ongoing efforts to innovate education, highlighting the complex balance between fiscal responsibility and educational quality in Texas schools.