HARRIS COUNTY, Texas — A growing number of school districts in Texas have implemented four-day school weeks. Now, Crosby ISD could be the first in Harris County to make the change.
Parents will discuss the move to a shorter week in greater detail Wednesday. It's all part of a survey the district sent out to parents about the possibility.
According to estimates from the Texas Classroom Teachers Association, about 40 Texas school districts are on a four-day week, with more than a dozen starting their new schedules this school year.
A decision on the change is expected to be made by the end of the month.
Some parents are worried about the potential change.
"I honestly started freaking out," said one parent. "I have two older ones in middle school and one in elementary. My first thought was child care."
Others think it could be a good change for the district.
"I think there is a good reason to do that," another parent said. "I would say I am OK with it."
In a letter to families and staff, the district said switching to a four-day week could help them combat a teacher shortage. That letter can be read below:
"Thank you for being critical Thought Partners with us. We are reaching out today to ask for a little more detailed input as part of the ongoing community conversations regarding the 2023-2024 Academic Calendar.
"Throughout this school year, as Superintendent Patterson was on campuses, district employees would inquire about the possibility of Crosby ISD adopting a 4-day school week. The idea also became prevalent during our first two surveys about next year’s academic calendar.
"One of the most important contributing factors of a student receiving exceptional learning is the classroom teacher. The country is currently facing a teacher shortage. Crosby ISD is not immune to this crisis. In an effort to provide exceptional teachers for our children, Crosby ISD is seriously considering a 4-day school week for next school year.
"We began last semester gathering thoughts from you concerning a 4-day school week. For those of you who took time to give us heartfelt and detailed responses in our first two surveys, we appreciate you. We read each response and took to heart what you told us. In fact, that’s why we are reaching out again.
"The survey you’re about to complete is our next step – a third conversation focused exclusively on the serious consideration of possible impacts of a 4-day school week.
"In mid-February, you will have the chance to see drafts of calendars, and vote on which option you prefer. A few things to help you answer the survey questions:
- Mondays would be student holidays.
- The school year would begin in August.
- The school year would end in May.
- There would be no school for students and staff members for all national holidays.
- Thanksgiving Break would be for a full week.
- Christmas Break would be for two weeks.
- The school day could increase, but not by more than 30 minutes.
- There would be no late arrival days for Crosby High School or Crosby Middle School students.
- There would be no elementary PLC days.
- Staff members would have professional development days on some Mondays.
- Staff members would have some Mondays off.
- The goal is that no employee’s pay would decrease.
"This survey will only take a few minutes, so please continue the conversation with us. Have a wonderful day and remember, we are better together!"
Click here to take the district's survey.