During the Washington County School District's recent board meeting on January 6, 2025, discussions highlighted community engagement and adjustments to the school calendar for the upcoming 2026-2027 academic year.
Principal Monhurst shared a positive reflection on a recent event, "Sadie's," which took place on a cold Saturday night. The event was hosted at the school's tennis courts, where students were welcomed with hot chocolate and cookies. Monhurst emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming environment for students, particularly as the district aims to encourage more in-person attendance. A registration night is scheduled for January 14, targeting ninth to eleventh graders, to promote school programs and foster a sense of community.
The board also addressed the 2026-2027 school calendar, with significant changes aimed at balancing instructional days between semesters. The school year will begin on August 13, 2026, with teachers returning on August 6. Adjustments were made to ensure that the number of instructional days is equitable across both semesters, addressing previous discrepancies. Notably, the calendar will feature a break in April, which had been absent in past years, to provide students and staff with a much-needed respite before the end of the school year.
The board's discussions reflected a commitment to enhancing student experiences and ensuring that the school calendar aligns with community needs. As the district moves forward, these initiatives are expected to foster greater student engagement and support academic success.