A survey conducted by the Houston R-1 School District received 943 responses from community members, district staff and students. Approximately 65% were in favor of a four-day school week.
The survey, conducted in December, split up participants into three groups – community members, staff and students. Approval was the highest among staff (68.4%) and the lowest among students (61.1%).
As for which day to not be in classes, the community preferred Friday, while students and staff leaned toward Monday.
For staff, the results showed that they would not be more likely to continue employment and had concerns about how their wages would be affected.
Allowing the day to be a personal day was the majority consent of the staff, who see it as an opportunity to have more time for scheduling, family and well-being.
Among students, having to change their current breaks (Thanksgiving, Christmas, spring, etc.) was concerning.
For community members – including parents and guardians – child care was of little to no concern to 54% of respondents and only of major concern to 16%.
The district said survey results will be discussed with staff members during a Jan. 13 meeting and formally presented to the school board during its Jan. 14 monthly meeting.