Changes to the academic calendar in Anne Arundel County will see the elimination of six out of twelve early-dismissal days. Instead, these days will be replaced with a teacher workday and a full day off for students. The Board of Education unanimously approved this modification on Wednesday, responding to community feedback.
The decision follows a recent law passed by the Maryland General Assembly, which allows Anne Arundel County to meet educational requirements based on hourly instruction rather than the traditional 180-day school year. This flexibility is intended to reduce disruptions caused by early dismissals, which focus groups identified as challenging for students, teachers, and parents.
Superintendent Mark Bedell initiated this calendar change and sought public input through an online survey. During the Board meeting, Bob Mosier, the chief communications officer, presented the feedback received. Out of nearly 10,000 responses, an impressive 91% supported Bedell’s proposed calendar adjustment. Notably, over half of the respondents were parents, while 28% identified as district employees.
The revised calendar allows for a more structured approach to the academic year, aiming to enhance both teaching efficiency and student well-being. Parents and educators alike have expressed relief at the removal of early dismissals, which many felt interrupted the flow of learning.
As schools continue to adapt to changing educational frameworks, the Anne Arundel County Board of Education remains committed to prioritizing the needs of students and families. This restructuring is viewed as a positive step towards creating a more effective learning environment.
For further details or to share news tips, contact Bridget Byrne at [email protected] or call 443-690-7205.
