Anne Arundel Schools Propose Calendar Overhaul for 2023-24

A proposed revision to the school calendar in Anne Arundel County aims to replace early-dismissal days with full days off for students. This initiative, led by Superintendent Mark Bedell, seeks to enhance the educational experience by providing a consistent schedule for families, students, and staff.

During the Board of Education meeting on September 17, 2023, Bedell expressed his belief that the changes would minimize disruptions in learning. The plan suggests eliminating early dismissal days at the end of the second, third, and fourth marking periods, instead designating these days as full days off for students, while staff will have a full working day. “We want feedback from our families… I’m asking everyone to take part in this because the school calendar impacts everyone,” Bedell stated.

Parents and community members have the opportunity to share their thoughts via a survey available on the school district’s website until October 1, 2023. Based on the feedback received, Bedell will present his final recommendation on October 15, 2023, with the Board of Education scheduled to vote on the changes on November 5, 2023.

The proposed changes come in light of a new law signed by Governor Wes Moore that alters the requirements for school attendance in the county. Under the revised law, students must attend school for a total of 180 days, but the requirement for a specific number of school days has been lifted. Instead, the focus shifts to the number of instructional hours, which stand at 1,080 hours for elementary and middle school students, and 1,170 hours for high school students.

Historically, Anne Arundel County has utilized early dismissal days to meet the required 180 school days while allowing time for professional development and grading. However, this practice has faced criticism from both parents and teachers, as early dismissals have been shown to disrupt routines and negatively impact attendance.

Data from the district reveals a significant decline in attendance on early dismissal days, with some days in the 2023-24 school year seeing attendance drop by as much as 14.09% below average. Recognizing these issues, the district established the Innovative School Scheduling Workgroup last summer, composed of staff, elected officials, and representatives from community organizations. The workgroup concluded that early dismissals hinder instruction and adversely affect student attendance rates.

Democratic legislators Del. Heather Bagnall and Sen. Dawn Gile, who represent the Annapolis area, sponsored the bill that granted the exception to the 180-day rule, allowing for flexibility as long as the hourly requirements are met. “I offered to sponsor this bill with my Senate colleague… because we believe our nationally renowned Superintendent Dr. Bedell has a transformational vision,” Bagnall stated.

Despite the potential benefits of the proposed calendar adjustments, the timing of the law’s passage has posed challenges for the district. The Board of Education must vote on any changes to the calendar, as the current version was approved prior to the new law coming into effect.

The community’s input will play a crucial role in shaping the final decision. With the upcoming survey and the Board’s vote, Anne Arundel County officials are committed to ensuring that the school calendar aligns with the needs of families, students, and educators.