Klickitat School District
4-Day School Week Exploration
Community Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a 4-day school week?
A 4-day school week means students attend school four days instead of five, with longer school days to make sure students still receive the required amount of instruction.
In Washington State, districts must apply for an Economy and Efficiency Waiver to operate on a 4-day schedule.
Has Klickitat School District decided to move to a 4-day week?
No decision has been made.
Klickitat School District is studying the possibility of a 4-day school week. We are gathering information, reviewing research, and listening to feedback from families, staff, and community members before making any decisions.
Why is the district exploring this option?
We are exploring a 4-day schedule to:
· Support student success
· Improve staff recruitment and retention
· Expand career and technical education (CTE) and enrichment opportunities
· Strengthen teacher collaboration and planning
· Increase operational efficiency
· Become a district of choice that attracts families to our community
Would students still receive enough learning time?
Yes.
Students would still meet or exceed Washington State instructional hour requirements. School days would be a little longer, but students would still receive strong academic instruction.
What might the school day look like?
If adopted, school days could look similar to:
· Monday–Thursday
Approximately 7:50 AM – 3:30 PM or 8:00 AM – 3:40 PM (Etc.)
· Exact times would be determined through planning and community feedback.
Would teachers and staff work fewer hours?
No.
Teachers and staff would continue working the same total hours, but schedules may be adjusted to allow:
· More collaboration time
· Professional learning
· Student support planning
· The district is committed to supporting classified staff schedules and wages.
What would happen on Fridays?
Fridays may offer optional student opportunities, such as:
· Academic support or tutoring
· Enrichment activities
· Career exploration
· Clubs and activities
· Internships or job experiences
· College and career preparation
· Community-based programs
· These opportunities are still being explored.
Will childcare options be available?
We understand childcare is an important concern.
The district is working with community partners, and local organizations to explore affordable childcare and enrichment opportunities for families.
Will meals still be available for students?
Yes.
The district will continue supporting students who rely on school meals. Options such as meal distribution or Friday meal access will be explored.
How will this affect athletics and activities?
Athletics and activities will continue.
In many districts, a 4-day schedule allows:
· Better scheduling flexibility
· Fewer missed class periods
· Improved planning for travel and competitions
What are the possible benefits of a 4-day week?
Possible benefits may include:
· Increased student engagement
· Improved teacher recruitment and retention
· More time for student support and enrichment
· Better attendance
· More predictable weekly schedules
· Expanded opportunities for career and technical learning
What are the possible challenges?
Some challenges may include:
· Childcare needs for families
· Longer school days
· Adjustments to family schedules
· These concerns are being carefully reviewed.
How will students who need extra help be supported?
Student support will remain a priority.
Possible support may include:
· Personalized instruction
· Academic interventions
· Friday tutoring options
· Individual student support plans
When will a decision be made?
No timeline has been finalized.
The school board will review:
· Research data
· Financial considerations
· Student learning needs
· Stakeholder feedback before making any decision.
How can I share my thoughts or ask questions?
We welcome your input.
You can share feedback through:
· Community surveys
· School meetings
· Parent meeting
· School board meetings
· Direct contact with district staff
· Your voice matters in this process.
What is the district’s long-term goal?
Klickitat School District is working to become:
· A district of choice that attracts families, supports students, and prepares every learner for future success.
· Exploring a 4-day school week is one possible way to support that vision.