Three Florida school districts are piloting year-round curriculum to curb summer learning loss, and the state’s education leaders say if the program is successful, it will be made permanent in all schools across the state. We are considering a transition.
Select campuses in Marion, Alachua and Brevard counties were approached by lawmakers to make the switch over the next five years to evaluate results, the report said. Ocala Star Banner.
The Florida Department of Education will monitor the impact and make recommendations to Gov. Ron DeSantis and lawmakers about possible expansion beyond the 2028-2029 school year.
Alachua officials said they hope the program will improve academic performance, improve student behavior and forge stronger bonds with faculty and staff.
This year-round format also aims to limit summer learning loss and improve retention rates.
“As a former teacher and principal, I have seen many students make significant academic declines this summer,” Superintendent Shane Andrew wrote. on the district’s website. “We are excited about the tremendous potential this program brings to Metcalfe College and Rawlings students. [elementary schools] Get the consistent support you need to continue learning throughout the year. ”
Alachua’s new format will significantly shorten the summer vacation students normally take for 10 weeks.
Local education officials said she supports the plan and that local parents are also cautiously accepting the possibility of a longer school year.
“This is an untapped potential and perhaps this is what we needed all along,” she told the media. What is your teaching experience and content here at Rawlings Elementary School? ”
Children will still attend school for 180 days, but vacations will be spread out throughout the year instead of concentrated in the summer.
Officials said the pilot will not affect teachers’ salaries.
Alachua families can opt out of the year-round format.
Some parents in Brevard County have balked at the switch, arguing that different schedules for elementary and high school students could wreak havoc on plans. According to Florida Today.
Learning loss has become a central concern during the COVID-19 pandemic, as many children have not stepped foot in a classroom for more than a year.
Recent test scores have shown declines in both reading and math, leading some observers to worry that academic performance continues to decline.
