The Lakeland School District is moving forward with plans to implement a four-day school week, a decision that has sparked significant discussion among the Board of Trustees during their recent meeting on May 21, 2025. The proposal, backed by the superintendent, aims to enhance student attendance and potentially improve academic performance, as evidenced by positive outcomes in other districts that have adopted similar schedules.

Trustees highlighted that schools like Post Falls and Malad, which operate on a four-day week, have reported increased test scores and improved attendance rates. However, concerns were raised regarding the potential reduction in instructional time, particularly for younger students, as the new schedule would decrease the number of school days from 190 to 169. This change could impact the overall hours of instruction, with some trustees questioning whether the quality of education might suffer as a result.

In response to these concerns, the district plans to offer childcare services on Fridays to accommodate families who may struggle with the new schedule. This initiative aims to alleviate worries about childcare availability, especially for parents of younger children. The district anticipates that this program could serve 60 to 75 children at each high school location, providing a structured environment for students while their parents work.

Financial implications were also a focal point of the discussion. The district estimates a conservative savings of approximately $253,000 from reduced utility costs due to the closure of schools on Fridays. However, some trustees expressed skepticism about the projected savings, suggesting that the calculations may not accurately reflect the actual costs involved.

As the district prepares to implement this significant change, the Board of Trustees emphasized the importance of community input. They acknowledged that while the four-day week could offer benefits, it is crucial to consider the diverse needs of families and the potential impact on student learning. The district plans to conduct further surveys to gather feedback from parents, particularly those with children in elementary grades, to ensure that the new schedule aligns with community expectations and needs.

The decision to transition to a four-day school week represents a bold step for the Lakeland School District, with the potential to reshape the educational landscape for students and families alike. As the district moves forward, ongoing dialogue with the community will be essential to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.