In an era where the demands of academics, extracurriculars, and personal commitments often collide, it’s time for Benilde-St. Margaret’s to reconsider the traditional five-day school week and switch to the new four-day week. Imagine this: longer weekends that provide students and teachers with time to pursue passions, manage stress, and recharge for the upcoming week, and shorter weekdays that improve students’ academic performances, and increase attendance and participation in school activities and extracurriculars. Some schools across the nation have been converting to this new schedule, and it’s time we do as well.
Since the 2020 pandemic, more schools have transitioned to a four-day schedule with the hope of improving students’ performance and stress levels. Schools in Colorado report that their shorter school week reduces students’ fatigue and increases engagement during school hours. This allows students to participate in class more actively and absorb material better, thus helping them to do better on tests.
This four-day schedule also fosters a sense of school spirit, as students feel more energized and motivated to participate in school activities. With the extra day for themselves, students will be more enthusiastic about joining clubs, sporting events, school plays, and other extracurriculars, strengthening their connection to the BSM community.
Some may argue that a four-day week will result in a decrease in instructional time, potentially impacting the depth of learning and preparation for college. However, the schools that have already adopted this schedule have addressed the concern by slightly lengthening the school days by an hour. They also have Friday as a designated day for optional tutoring, club meetings, or independent study. At BSM, we could amend that plan by adding peer tutoring in addition to teacher tutoring. This peer-to-peer support system will enhance student leadership, potentially serving as an internship for college resume applications.
Switching to this reduced school week doesn’t only benefit students, but also has a positive impact on teachers. It offers them an additional day to plan lessons, grade papers, and prepare materials for the upcoming week. It also helps reduce stress and prevent burnout by giving teachers a chance to recharge and manage their personal lives better. Furthermore, teachers deserve a day to relax after spending so much time and effort helping their students.
The benefits of this schedule have been successful in other states. Across the country, districts have reported the positive impacts on the students’ and teachers’ well-being. For example, District 27 J Schools in Colorado have reported positive outcomes like improved attendance and better work-life balance for teachers. If these schools can successfully make the shift, there’s no reason BSM can’t follow and become a leader in educational innovation.