URGENT UPDATE: The Thompson School District has just announced significant changes to its school calendar for the upcoming years, shifting the start and end dates to address the increasing concerns over early fall heat. This adjustment comes after a unanimous vote by the district’s board and aims to protect students from excessive classroom temperatures.
Officials confirmed that the first day of school will now be one week later, while the last day will also shift accordingly, remaining just before Memorial Day. This change aligns with feedback from families, emphasizing the importance of keeping the school year within the months of May and before June.
The decision follows a trend, as the Poudre School District has made similar adjustments to combat heat issues in their schools. Many facilities in Thompson lack adequate air conditioning, leading to frequent “heat days” where classes were canceled due to high temperatures. Superintendent Bret Heller highlighted the importance of this change during a recent study session, stating that it was a necessary step to ensure student comfort and safety.
“While this adjustment may not be perfect, it addresses the critical concerns from both families and teachers,” said Heller. He noted that maintaining the winter break as a dividing line between the first and second semesters was crucial to avoid conflicts with final exams and curriculum planning. However, this shift will result in an imbalance, with the first semester having fewer days compared to the second.
The board’s decision was met with support from Board President Stu Boyd, who emphasized the extensive research conducted by the calendar committee. “I’m very supportive of the recommendation, as they have thoroughly explored various options for both Thompson and other districts,” Boyd stated.
Parents and students are encouraged to view the updated calendar on the Thompson School District website, where the new dates are now available. As the district moves forward with these changes, they are committed to addressing the ongoing challenges posed by heat in classrooms, underscoring their dedication to student well-being.
As schools prepare for the upcoming year, the community is urged to stay informed on any further developments and potential impacts on the education system. This shift marks a significant step in promoting healthier learning environments, and families are hopeful that it will lead to a positive change in the school experience.
The district is expected to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of this new calendar in the coming years, as they continue to prioritize the needs of students and educators alike. Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
