It’s an increasing trend nationwide. P-12 schools (especially rural schools) are changing to a “four-day-per-week” schedule. Many districts see this as a cost-cutting measure, a way to allow more time for teacher professional development, a chance to create a more flexible schedule for athletics, and so on.
But what does research tell us about the impact on student learning? A recent study found that this new approach creates significant reductions in student learning. And like other cost-cutting measures (like increasing class sizes), the negative academic effects may intensify with the passage of time.
While additional research in this area still needs to be done, the findings of this extensive study are troubling. Schools contemplating such a change need to carefully consider the impact it may have on student learning and test scores.