Aiken County Public School District exploring modified school calendar

Oct. 29—Aiken County Board of Education Superintendent King Laurence mentioned the idea of a modified academic calendar during Tuesday's board meeting.

With a modified calendar, the first day of school would be between mid-July and early August and the last day would be the first week of June. The calendar also would include a two week break at the end of each nine weeks allowing students, teachers and families a change to "rest and recharge".

"Does the way we arrange our 180 day instruction still make sense?" Laurence asked during his presentation of goals on Tuesday. "We know that opportunities were delayed by the pandemic (but) can we create time within the school year for catch up growth."

The modified calendar would shorten summer break, which is a time when students often experience learning loss due to the amount of time out of the classroom, according to Aiken County Public Schools website. The summer break would last approximately six weeks.

The modified schedule would also allow students more time for one-on-one opportunities with their teachers to help alleviate stress for students and families, according to Aiken County Public Schools.

This calendar change was not voted on and is not in effect, the administration will provide opportunities for the community to engage in the discussion of a modified calendar.

"We will survey community stakeholders for feedback, host town hall listening sessions and meet with stakeholder advisory groups to allow a diverse group that represents all areas of Aiken County Public Schools to share in the conversation and exploration," said ACPSD Communications Coordinator Stephanie Behrendt.

The Edgefield County School District is also considering the possibility of switching to a modified calendar as well.

Aiken County Public Schools students, families and employees can email any questions regarding the modified calendar to communications@acpsd.net.