In a move aimed at improving student outcomes and enhancing teacher morale, the Ector Independent School District (Ector ISD) School Board has approved a 4-Day Instructional Week Calendar for the upcoming 2023-24 school year. The decision, made during the board meeting held on February 16th, 2023, was met with overwhelming support from both the community and staff surveys.
The implementation of the 4-Day Instructional Week stems from the district's primary objective of attracting and retaining top educators, recognizing that they play a crucial role in shaping student success. By adopting this innovative approach, Ector ISD hopes to drive enrollment, generate additional revenues, and consequently offer more courses and resources that directly impact student learning.
The decision to transition to a 4-Day Instructional Week was based on several compelling factors. Firstly, the revised calendar provides teachers with increased time for curriculum planning and professional development. This additional preparation time ensures that educators are better equipped to deliver high-quality instruction and engage students effectively.
Moreover, the 4-Day Instructional Week incorporates built-in time for remediation, allowing teachers to provide individualized support and address any learning gaps among students. This approach is expected to result in improved academic outcomes and reduce chronic absenteeism, as struggling students receive the necessary attention and intervention.
One of the significant advantages of the 4-Day Instructional Week is the positive impact it has on teacher morale and work-life balance. The revised schedule provides educators with an additional day off, allowing them to spend more time with their families and engage in self-care activities. By reducing work-related stress and burnout, the district aims to enhance teacher retention and attract high-quality educators to Ector ISD.
FAQs Provided by Ector ISD
Will students be off every Friday?
No, we have scheduled Power Fridays approximately every third Friday of the school year. Students will be required to attend Power Fridays from 7:45am-12:30pm. Breakfast and Lunch will be provided. Buses will run as normal on those days as well.
What is a Power Friday?
Students will participate in enrichment activities that include fine arts, small group instruction, academic groups and community activities. Power Friday will be from 7:45am-12:30pm. Regular compulsory attendance rules apply.
How long will the students have to be at school each day?
7:45am-3:55pm, twenty five minutes was added to the school day .
Will child care be available for the Fridays off?
Yes, we plan to have staff available to students without proper supervision at home. More information regarding this program will be communicated soon.
Will students that need food service support be provided meals for days off?
Yes, Ector ISD is currently organizing an Ector Cares backpack program that will support students in this area. More information regarding this program will be communicated soon.
How will a 4-day week affect athletic transportation and schedules?
Ector ISD Athletics will work with parents and students to ensure everyone is allowed to participate.
Will student instruction be cut short due to a 4-Day Instructional Week?
No, we are required to have 75,600 mins of instruction each school year. The adopted calendar has the same number of instructional minutes as the previous 5 Day Calendar; the only difference is the structure.
