What is the process for developing and approving a calendar?

By United Teachers of Monroe Contract, a committee made up of four representatives selected by UTM and 4 representatives selected by the district and 1 student recommend a calendar.  The committee is facilitated by the Deputy Superintendent and the UTM President.   The district selects one parent, one teacher, one principal, one district administrator and the student. We try to select so that each region is represented.  The principal usually volunteers; the teacher is selected by a regional principal; the district representatives is selected by the Deputy Superintendent; the parent is selected from those who have indicated a desire to serve; and the student is selected by a regional principal.  The UTM selects one parent and three members of its membership.

The district and union takes suggestions all year from all parties via email, phone calls, letters, board input, teacher input and administrator input.  The committee meets and discusses all issues and recommends to the Superintendent a proposed calendar.  There committee makes the recommendation based on what they believe is educationally effective for students.  The Superintendent then makes a recommendation to the board. The proposed calendar is posted on the website.  Principals may share the calendar with staff, parents, SAC etc.  The board then reviews, revises if necessary and approves the final calendar.

Why does school begin early in August?

In response to requests by teachers, students and parents, school began in August so that the first semester would end at Winter Break.  This was more effective for high school students and teachers.  We made this change many years ago.  Then the FCAT was mandated by the state.  The early start also provided the teachers and students more weeks to prepare for this high stakes test.

Are children going to school longer with this calendar?

No, each district must have at least 180 day student calendar.  By United Teachers Of Monroe Contract teachers have a 196 day contract- 6 paid holidays and 10 professional days for training and preparing grades.

Are there added days for Hurricane Make Up Days?

No, it is decided which days in the calendar scheduled as professional days and non work days, will be used as regular school days if makeup days are needed

Why do students attend only two days the first week?

Teachers find that students need a short week to get back into the routine of school.  Many students have been used to getting up late, staying up late and taking naps during the day.  This gives the teacher two days to establish procedures and routines for the classroom and prepare students for a full week of school. The calendar has been done this way and starting with a full week and the two day scenario was more effective for the classroom.

What restrictions do you have in developing the calendar?

The calendar must not violate the teacher contract.  Many days are set due to the language in the calendar.  We must have 90 days in each semester to meet hourly requirements for courses in high school.

Do we have to have the non student days so spread out in the calendar?

No, this year we worked diligently to chunk the professional days, holidays and early release days in order to provide more complete weeks and allow parents to better plan for short trips.

How do I have input on the next calendars to be developed?

Contact the UTM President, Deputy Superintendent or Board Members via email, phone calls, and letters with suggestions and concerns.  These issues will be discussed in detail at the next calendar committee meeting.  If you are interested in being considered for membership on the calendar committee, please contact one of those listed above.

Suggestions for Next Calendar Recommendations:

*More time between when the calendar is proposed and the scheduled board meeting for the vote.

* Establish minutes at the meeting and post the minutes.

* Provide reminders via newsletters announcements etc. that the calendar committee will be meeting and suggestions are being collected.