Debating Year-Round Education (1/2)

Today we continue our discussion of school calendars as a new American school year begins. Some people say the traditionalcalendar of 180 days no longer meets the needs of American society. They point out that students in most other industrial countries are in school more hours a day and more days a year.

Critics also say a long summer vacation causes students to forget much of what they learned. Schools are under pressure to raise test scores. Some have changed their calendars to try to improve student performance. They have lengthened the school day or added days to the year or both.

This can be costly if schools need air conditioning on hot days and school employees need to be paid for the extra time. Local businesses may object to a longer school year because students are unable to work as long at summer jobs. Some schools have a year-round schedule. The school year is extended over 12 months. Instead of a long vacation, there are many short ones.

The National Association of Year-Round Education says almost 5% of public school students attend year-round schools. It says almost all of the states have some public schools that are open all year.