BREAKING: The 2026/2027 school year at Oak Park and River Forest High School will start significantly later than usual. The OPRF District 200 Board of Education just announced a change in the school calendar, delaying classes to August 24, 2026 for freshmen and August 25 for other students. This decision, made during a board meeting on August 21, 2023, passed with a 5 to 2 vote to accommodate ongoing construction from the district’s Project 2 initiative.
The shift means that for the first time since the 2012-13 school year, finals will be held in January rather than before the winter break. This change is set to impact students’ schedules and mental well-being, raising concerns among parents and educators alike.
Parents expressed strong opposition to the new schedule. One parent, Divya Variyam, voiced her disappointment, stating, “I think it’s shortsighted. I have children who will be studying over that break, and it will not be a break.” Another parent, Amy Guralnick, warned that despite administrators’ assurances about no assignments over the winter holiday, students will likely feel compelled to study, adding unnecessary stress.
The board members who supported the change believe it is a reasonable solution for a one-year adjustment. Board member Kathleen Odell emphasized the necessity of ensuring that all learning spaces are ready for students. However, board members Fred Arkin and Josh Gertz raised critical points about the implications for students in Advanced Placement courses, suggesting that the later start might hinder their preparation for AP exams.
Administrators have committed to a “pencils down” approach during the winter break, urging students to prioritize rest and avoid schoolwork. The first semester will end on January 21, 2027, with winter break concluding on January 2, allowing a brief transition back to academic life.
In a discussion about the potential stress of the new exam schedule, Graham Brisben reassured parents that the administration would manage the situation, but doubts linger about students’ ability to genuinely relax during the break.
The board also noted that the construction primarily impacts physical education facilities. Despite the ongoing renovations, many classes have successfully continued, with some even being held outdoors. History teacher Toni Biasiello, a member of the calendar committee, argued that adjusting the finals schedule might even benefit students, providing them extra time to catch up and reducing pressure during a typically hectic December.
As this story develops, parents and students are urged to stay informed about potential adjustments and the administration’s plans for the upcoming school year. With the new calendar now in place, all eyes will be on how the changes affect student performance and well-being throughout the year.
Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available.
