State Journal, Frankfort, March 27, 2015

Frankfort Independent Schools will keep alternative calendar
By Brent Schanding

Frankfort Independent Schools won’t deviate next school year from the alternative calendar they’ve largely followed for the past two decades. That calendar divides school sessions into four quarters and offers approximately three-week breaks between each.

Some believe the district’s atypical calendar is beneficial in combating “summer slump” — an extended period that proves difficult for students to retain knowledge because they’re out of the classroom.

 “It’s a calendar that provides wonderful opportunities for students if utilized appropriately,” said board member Jina Greathouse, who joined board members Paul Looney and Margaret Tillman in approving next year’s school calendar.

Looney says the calendar also offers chances for struggling students to catch up with course work. Earlier this school year, about 300 Second Street students participated in academic remediation efforts, he said.

The district also utilized seven days of its three-week spring break this month to make up missed snow days.

But board member Libby Marshall, who dissented from district decision makers on the matter, believes a three-week vacation presents its own problems.

“Families need to find childcare or take time off from work” during those extended breaks, Marshall said. “I’ve become concerned there are too many children home alone. For their benefit, it’s important to look where this hardship falls.”

Some high school teachers have also noted the year-round schedule often conflicts with colleges and universities, whose summer programs often overlap with the district’s schedules.

Some senior athletes set to compete in college sports programs are required to begin conditioning, even though they haven’t graduated. 

Marshall pushed for a compromise that would have given students and staff a two-week break between quarters. Both plans adhere to state guidelines dictating school calendars.

Board members split 3-1 on the calendar decision. Board member Becky Barnes was absent for the vote.