Iron County School District Considers Shift to Four-Day Week

The Iron County School District is exploring a significant change to its academic calendar, potentially moving to a four-day school week. This proposal, which has gained traction over the past month, is currently under consideration alongside the traditional five-day schedule. Approximately 2,600 parents and around 760 school staff members have provided feedback on this matter.

A recent district poll revealed that 71% of school staff support the four-day week, while 66.6% of parents are also in favor. Julia Amatais, a parent with a 10-year-old son, expressed her support, stating, “I’m for it! He can spend more time with me.”

This initiative is not unique to Iron County; neighboring districts such as Garfield County have already adopted the four-day schedule, with Piute and Wayne counties making similar transitions within the last two years. The move in Iron County is largely motivated by financial considerations. The district, which includes nine elementary and eight secondary schools, ranks low in state funding per student. In 2024, local voters rejected a school bond, and in September, the state tax board declined a proposed tax increase for the district.

Despite the potential benefits, Shauna Lund from the school district noted that any financial savings from the shortened week may only be temporary. “That cost savings would probably occur in the first two years, and then it would even out to about where we are right now,” she stated. Lund added that while cost savings may be limited, the district is focusing on improving teacher retention. Research from Stanford University suggests that the financial benefits of a four-day week could be minimal, with some studies indicating that it may negatively impact teacher retention.

Supporters of the four-day week argue that it could enhance student engagement. Teachers report that attendance on Fridays tends to drop significantly, with one noting that often half the students do not show up. Lance Hatch, Superintendent of Iron County Schools, remarked, “Fridays are by far the least attended day for students. Eliminating Fridays would immediately improve attendance across the district.”

The community will have the opportunity to voice its opinions at town halls scheduled for December 2, 2024. Following these discussions, the school board is expected to make a decision before the end of the year. Should the four-day week be approved, final approval from the state will also be required.

As the Iron County School District navigates this potential shift, the implications for students, parents, and teachers remain a central focus. The outcome could set a precedent for other districts in the state and beyond.