School Board Faces Challenges for 2018-2019 School Year Calendar

The Montgomery County School Board will have to make a tough decision for the 2018 -2019 school year calendar if Governor Larry Hogan denies the board’s request to extend the school year calendar.

An executive order by Hogan requires Maryland schools to start after Labor Day and end by June 14 with a minimum of 180 instructional days.

The problem, according to MCPS spokesperson Derek Turner, is trying to fit 180 days in the state mandated calendar requirements without sacrificing days from the students’  spring break which lasts one week; remaining closed on Jewish holidays Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur; and providing professional days for teachers.

“Right now these calendars are optional,” Turner said. “Next year, the school start date and required last day of school fall on a weird time. With this executive order,  it could become difficult  in years to come to accommodate spring break and remaining closed on traditional holidays.”

The School Board, according to Turner, has until December to adopt next year’s calendar.

To see the proposed calendars for the 2018-2019 school year, click here. 

About Mitti Hicks

Mitti Hicks is a multimedia journalist and community engagement specialist with Montgomery Community Media. She is passionate about telling stories that impact our community and may be reached at MHicks@mymcmedia.org and on Twitter @mittimegan.

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