Superintendent Updates
10.5.26
Dear EHPS Parents,
4 Day School Week
Over the past few years, the district calendar committee has been exploring the idea of a 4 day school week. Flexibility in Montana’s accreditation laws and local control allow districts to consider calendar and scheduling options that work for their local community. Many districts across Montana have made the change to a 4 day week over the last several years for various reasons such as:
- staff recruitment and retention,
- substitute shortages during activity travel,
- less class missed for student athletes etc.
Some nearby districts that operate on a 4 day week include Townsend and Jefferson High School (in Boulder).
Generally, when districts transition to a 4 day week, they do not have school on Fridays. Some districts have found this provides more flexibility with activity related travel and activity staffing while not requiring substitutes. Also, students who are traveling are not missing class instruction while gone for Friday road trips. Some districts utilize a portion of the open Fridays for staff training (replacing Monday early releases).
Clearly a 4 day week would impact families. Younger students whose parents work on Fridays would need supervision or childcare. Also, in most “4 day” districts, the school day is longer to account for the reduced number of days of attendance. This can raise concerns about the attention span of children and their engagement in instruction during longer school days.
The district calendar committee has done a lot of research on the topic and continues to gather input. The committee has opened a survey to gauge parental interest and public opinion about a change like this. They will review the results and share the information with the school board who will have the final say on any transition.
School board trustees want to hear your thoughts on the issue. Would this be a positive or negative change for your family? What impacts and implications do you think should be considered? Please take minute and complete the survey found at the link below:
Walk to School Day
Our annual Walk to School Day is coming up this Wednesday, October 7. K-8 students are encouraged to participate. Specific info is being shared by school principals regarding walk to school activities. Please be extra cautious Wednesday if driving near or around the schools.
PT Conferences
K-8 parent-teacher conferences are starting this week. High School parent-teacher conferences are on October 21-22. The connection between teacher and parents can be a significant factor in student success and achievement. Our teachers want to work with you to support your child's learning. Your participation in conferences is an important part of that work and commitment. We hope to see you there!
If you have questions about conferences or need to reschedule, please contact your student’s teacher or the school office.
EPA/METG Open House/Community Meeting
The EPA and Montana Environmental Trust Group are continuing their efforts in cleaning up our community from a century of lead smelting activity. They plan to host an Open House and meeting on October 13 from 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM at their offices in City Hall. This is an opportunity to learn about the clean up effort and ask pertinent questions.
East Helena Flu Shot CLinic
Cold and Flu season is just around the corner. Your East Helena schools are partnering with the County Health Dept to host a flu shot clinic open to the public on October 8 from 3:30 - 6:00 PM at EVMS. The clinic coincides with parent teacher conferences for parents’ convenience. Mark your calendars now!
LINKS
- Free/reduced Lunch Form
- To submit an online application do the following:
- 1. Click on the link: Free & Reduced Lunch Online Application
- 2. Click the RED Get started Button
- 3. Follow the prompts - you will receive and emailed response after your application has been reviewed
- Bus Routes
THANKS!
Dan Rispens, District Superintendent