LEWISBURG W.Va. (WVDN) – Greenbrier County Schools is pleased to announce a significant adjustment to the daily schedule for the upcoming school year. Beginning this fall, the length of the school day will be reduced, offering a more balanced approach to education while maintaining high standards of instructional time.
Since the early 1970s, Greenbrier County Schools has consistently exceeded the state-required instructional time, accruing a substantial amount of additional instructional minutes. This has provided our students with extensive educational opportunities and ensured ample time for make-up days when necessary. However, after thorough evaluation and consideration, the decision has been made to revise the daily schedule to better meet the needs of our students, staff, and families.
Key Changes:
- Reduced Daily Instructional Minutes: The new schedule will decrease the number of instructional minutes each day while still meeting and surpassing state requirements.
- Maintained Accrued Time for Make-Up Days: Even with reduced daily minutes, our schools will retain sufficient accrued instructional time to accommodate make-up days for inclement weather or other unexpected closures.
- Enhanced Balance for Students and Staff: This change aims to give students more time for extracurricular activities, rest, and family engagements, fostering a well-rounded educational experience.
Benefits of the New Schedule:
- Increased Focus on Quality Over Quantity: By optimizing the instructional day, teachers can concentrate on delivering high-quality, engaging lessons without the constraints of an overly extended school day.
- Support for Student Well-Being: A shorter school day can reduce stress and burnout among students, allowing them to pursue personal interests and spend more time with family.
- Enhanced Afterschool Opportunities: Students will have the opportunity to receive individualized tutoring, free dinner, and participate in other educational programming in optional afterschool programs at all elementary and secondary schools.
- Staff Professional Development: The revised schedule offers teachers and staff additional time for professional development, planning, and collaboration, ultimately enhancing the overall educational experience.
Superintendent Jeff Bryant expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming changes, stating, “We believe this adjustment will benefit our students and staff by providing a healthier balance between academic demands and personal well-being. Our commitment to delivering exceptional education remains unwavering, and we are confident that this new schedule will support that mission.”
In West Virginia, the required instructional minutes vary by grade level. According to West Virginia State Board of Education Policy 2510, the minimum instructional time requirements are as follows; however, each school in Greenbrier County will continue to accrue instructional minutes daily by attending 30 minutes longer than required by Policy 2510.:
- Grades K-4: 315 minutes per day
- Grades 5-8: 330 minutes per day
- Grades 9-12: 345 minutes per day
These requirements ensure that students receive adequate instructional time to meet educational standards. The policy also allows for flexibility in addressing the needs of different schools and students while ensuring that the total annual instructional time meets state standards.
The new schedule for schools in Greenbrier County, listed below, will take effect on the first day of the school year. Students in grades 1- 12 return to school on August 26. Kindergarten begins on September 3, and Pre-K starts on September 5. Busing schedule considerations impact each school’s daily schedule.
Schedule
For more information, please contact Nancy Hanna, Associate Superintendent, Greenbrier County Schools, 304-647-6470 /email: nhanna@k12.wv.us.
