Extending School Hours

Improved Essays
Why is the United States ranked 28 for the highest IQ in the world, but is sadly going down the scale? (“Pros and Cons of Extending School Days,” 2014) The problem is that education isnt taken into a serious consideration anymore. Though there are many ways it can be solved. For instance, using a new teaching format or paying more attention to math and language arts. But there is a more newer and effective way; extending the school day. Adding more time can also help with student achievements, finances, and being able to use time more efficiently. Longer hours may sound like everyone has to stay in school forever, but they actually get rewarded with one school day off. Adding extra time will boost student achievement. Outstandingly, math and reading levels improve drastically. Many other things besides academics improve as well. For example, the attendance, of one district in Montana went up by 19%. But most importantly, United States students are lagging academically compared to other countries. Jeffery Smith once said in an interview, “Students need longer days to be competitive in our world today. There is no way around it.” (“Pros and Cons of …show more content…
Annual spendings decrease by 5.43%. It may sound like a small amount, but every penny counts. With a four day week, schools save up to 20% in bus transportations and energy bills. Also, 17.6% to 18.9% get trimmed on administrative and support services. Now, many teachers fear that their salaries will become lower than they already are. In reality, it can only decrease by a nickels worth. To make everything more exciting, schools get to shred a day off, but they must add 60-90 minutes each day. (“What New Research on Extended School Days Says,” 2012) The new trend is spreading everywhere, and many districts are joining the bandwagon. Even a local school, Joel E. Barber, has joined; maybe the Waynesville Middle School will join

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