Well, we made it through Halloween and all the fun that comes with it. The kids looked great in their costumes and were very busy with Halloween-themed activities at school. The Kindergarten class got to eat pretzels hanging on string at recess, and the 1st grade class got to make their own caramel apples. Despite missing two days of school this past week, I was able to complete assessments of all my students in preparation for the 1st Trimester Report Cards, which we will start putting together in 2 weeks. Which brings me to my main revelation: WHAT IS OUR DISTRICT DOING WITH CALENDARS????
I don't know if any of you have taken the time to look at the new calendar for this year, or if you are playing it week-to-week, but this next month makes ABSOLUTELY NO SENSE! The first week is normal, then the next week we only have 1 full day and 2 half-days for Report Card Planning and Veteran's Day (2 days off of school for this?). The third week consists of 2 full days, 2 half days, and another day off for Report Card Conferences. Then there is no school for the whole week of Thanksgiving. For those of you keeping track at home that is only 10 teaching days the entire month (8 full days and 4 half days = 10 full days of instruction).
Now I am not unhappy with the extra time with family, I love my family and look forward to spending more time with them. But seriously, 10 days in the month of November, and probably less in December (we get 3 weeks off for Winter Break). How does all this extra time off during the school year make education better for kids (or help their families who now have to pay for extra daycare or make changes to their work schedules)? This crazy schedule adoption with the weird breaks is the reason we start school in mid-August and get out in late-June. Why can't "Traditional" schedules mean what it used to mean? Was there really anything wrong with starting school the week after Labor Day and getting out the first week of June? Maybe it is just me, but I've felt that has been a pretty "tried and true" schedule for most of America. I guess I just like simple routines too much!!
Anyway, now that I've shared my thoughts on this matter, I would love to hear from all of you reading this. How will the schedule effect your family over November and December? This is not a request made by the district, just something I personally would like more insight on.
*Does your family like the new schedule?
*What academic/personal benefits does the extended breaks in Nov/Dec have for your family?
*What changes, if any, would you like made for future school calendars?
*Does your family welcome the trade-off of more time with family in the winter rather than more time together in the summer?
As your child's teacher, I am a voice for you and I want to best serve your family's needs. I do what I can in the classroom for your child, and if I know your feelings on matters like this, I will be your voice in conferences and meetings where these kinds of decisions are made.
Stay warm and healthy this month. Enjoy the time with your family. And take some time out to tell the people in your life what they mean to you. That is the spirit of Thanksgiving!!
-Mr. Linnet
(I am thankful for my beautiful family, kind friends, and all my amazing students who inspire me and fill my heart with joy!!)
I definitely agree with you on this matter Mr. Linnet. I would much rather start school closer to Sept. and end earlier in June. I am also looking forward to these upcoming days off with my kids in Nov. and Dec., but I don't feel we need so many at one time. Not only is it disruptive to their education, but I think most families would agree that the time off is better used in the summer when it's nicer weather. I've wondered for a few years now why the district insists on the kids starting back so early in Aug. when it seems to be the hottest, and why three weeks off in Dec. when you really can't do much during the rain?
ReplyDeleteAnd so if you do have any say during the district meetings; I would definitely love it if you could convey to them how some us parents (if not all) feel about the school schedule.
I am actually in favor of a more traditional year-round calendar. That said, I think this calendar is crazy! If the district wants to go to more of a year-round schedule, than they should do so more appropriately, and not in this quasi-manner they chose. I think that a lot of knowledge is lost in the summer, and it would be more beneficial to have significant but shorter breaks during the school year to off set the long summer hiatus. I am disappointed though, by the inconsistent schedule that was adopted.
ReplyDeleteYOUR DOING A FABULOUS JOB DISPITE THE CRAZINESS MR. LINNET!!!
I would love to see a traditional school year, Starting after Labor Day and ending the 2nd week of June. There are so many unnecessary days off throughout the school year, I think it is ridiculous! It is so sad what is happening to our public school system. Mr Linnet, we are happy that you love and take pride in your job! We appreciate all your hard work despite of all the craziness.
ReplyDelete