Thursday, October 30, 2008
Sunday 10/26
I enjoyed the presentation on the Balanced Calendar. For years I've said I would be a huge fan of that model. Don't get me wrong I enjoy the 80+ days I have off in the summer, but the thought of having 2 or 3 weeks off every 9 weeks, now that sounds terrific. I think kids and teachers would be more energized during those 9 weeks knowing they have 3 weeks off coming soon. Think of the planning you could get done during your 3 week intersession. Worthwhile professional development could actually take place and be implemented. I know the idea was mentioned in Galesburg, but until we have several million dollars for air conditioning, I'm left to dream of my fall vacation to Vermont.
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I would never want to go back to a traditional calendar. I have enjoyed our modified calendar in the Rock Island School district. One of the reasons I love what I do is that there is a feeling of "fresh starts" built into my career. We used to get a fresh start every semester. With the modified calendar I get to start my school year in August when it is hot, our students are bored with summer, and the air conditioning is a relief for our poorer students. I am always eager to start our school year.
We then have nine weeks of class and get a two week break. We enjoy our yard work, the leaves turning colors, and a change of pace. We start a new quarter and get our second fresh start. This continues throughout the school year. The best positive feature is that we do not have to re-teach appropriate classroom behavior when we come back in August. Our students left school in June come back in August, and we slip into a quiet transition as our students return to their routine.
Our student behavior is good, our transitions smoother, and everyone's attitude is noticeably better. I recommend a modified year round calendar without reservation.
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