To the Editor:
As your readers know, I have a great interest in the Maries R-1 School District.
I read Superintendent Messersmith’s presentation to the Board of Education twice about their consideration of a four-day school week for the district. I also read the article twice about the Commissioner of Education Dr. Margie Vandeven’s expression of dislike for the four-day school week. My greatest concern is for the students.
I would be very reluctant if I were the Maries R-1 School District to move to a four-day school week. Dr. Margie Vandeven indicated that about 28 percent of Missouri schools are on a 4-day school week. That is not even one-third of the schools. There has to be a reason for that low number.
How could the Board of Education determine that attendance would improve, that there would be fewer discipline issues, that there would be improved mental health, and that more quality time could be spent with families?
Being realistic, Superintendent Messersmith pointed out things against four-day weeks. She included longer school days, accessibility to Monday sports practices for non-drivers, the necessity of extra food in snack bags sent home with students for the weekend, an extra day of childcare for families, and uncertainty of academic achievement.
I don’t want to be redundant, but I ask the Board of Education not to be hard on the younger students by picking them up around 6:15 a.m. and dropping them off around 5:15 p.m. They are our future, and they deserve the best.
I was very happy that Maries R-1 Superintendent Messersmith wants to get the community and parents input.
Sincerely,
Mary (Adkins) Halbrook
Rolla
