Colorado Springs School District 11 has announced plans to transition to a four-day school week starting in the upcoming academic year. The decision comes after months of community discussions and research into the potential benefits and challenges of the shortened week.
Superintendent Dr. Michael Thomas cited several factors influencing the decision: “We believe this change will improve student and teacher attendance, increase instructional time, and provide cost savings that can be reinvested in our classrooms. It also aligns with the preferences expressed by many of our families and staff members.”
Under the new schedule, schools will operate Monday through Thursday, with longer school days to ensure that instructional time meets state requirements. Fridays will be used for teacher professional development, student enrichment activities, and additional support for struggling students.
The district plans to work closely with community partners to provide childcare options and enrichment programs on Fridays for families who need them. Additionally, efforts are being made to ensure that students who rely on school meals will still have access to nutrition support on non-school days.
While some parents have expressed concerns about childcare and the impact on working families, many others have welcomed the change, citing potential benefits such as reduced stress and more family time. The district has committed to closely monitoring the effects of the four-day week and making adjustments as needed.
As one of the largest districts in Colorado to adopt this model, District 11’s experience will be closely watched by educators across the state and nation as they consider alternative school schedules.
