Who should control the calendar?

The Indiana Association of Public School Superintendents is asking Indiana citizens about school years, and so far, more than 2,600 people have taken the online survey, sharing their opinions on who should control the school year, how officials should spread out the school year and more.

Question 1: Many schools have a traditional school calendar while others elected to move to a balanced calendar. The traditional calendar features a long summer vacation with school starting in August or September and concluding in May or June after 180 student days. The balanced calendar reduces the long summer break and schedules the 180 student days throughout the school year. The balanced calendar has 180 student days but with more frequent breaks that limits long periods of instruction, as well as longer vacations. Do you prefer the traditional school calendar or the balanced calendar?

Question 2: The Indiana Legislature has proposed legislation in the past that would mandate school calendar start/end dates. Who should have the final say on the school calendar, your local school board or the state legislature?

Question 3: Schools are required to be in session 180 student days. Therefore, the start date affects the end date of the school year. When would you like for schools on a traditional schedule to start and end?

Bluffton-Harrison Superintendent Wayne Barker said he encourages parents to take the survey as well. To take the survey, click here.