Friday, May 24, 2013

School Calendar 2.0

Dear Students, Faculty, Staff, Parents and Community Members:

In 2010, the Champlain Valley Superintendents created a task force to review the current school year calendar, study alternative models, propose a modified calendar based on 21st century principles, generate an engagement plan and develop steps for implementing a transformed calendar for the 2014-2015 school year. 

Over the course of 2.5 years, the task force studied national and international calendar structures and analyzed potential constraints and challenges of altering the existing school year calendar – all with the goal of increasing student learning and achievement.  After much discussion, planning and exploration, the Champlain Valley Superintendents are ready to present a draft school year calendar to constituents. 

Below you will find resources that will help you understand the guiding principles of the draft school year calendar and some of the potential benefits of the model.  Please take time to review these resources and provide feedback.  It is important to emphasize that this is not an approved school year calendar.  The Champlain Valley Superintendents and I want to engage constituents in a conversation and get their input on the strengths and challenges of modifying a school year calendar format that has been in place for decades.  This communication is the first step in capturing feedback from individuals who will be affected by reconfiguring the school year.

Resources as follows:
Thank you for taking the time consider this change and share your perspective as we look for new and innovative ways to meet the academic and societal needs of every student. 

Sincerely,
John Alberghini
Superintendent, Chittenden East Supervisory Union