School Board approves late starts on 30 Fridays next year

All schools will start 90 minutes late on most Fridays during the 2007-08 school year.

View 2007-08 school year calendar

June 14, 2007— Renton School Board members have approved a measure to start all schools 90 minutes late on 30 Fridays next school year.

The late starts, which will replace current half-days and high school late starts, will allow teachers and staff to work in partnership to better analyze the academic needs of students, prepare classroom teaching and to collaborate by grade levels—and as an entire school—to share best practices in teaching strategies. Additionally, teachers and staff will come together for various training.

The plan allows a common calendar for all schools, making it easier for families and students to keep up with school schedules.

The plan was presented to families, community members and staff throughout May and June. Very few parents attended meetings or responded to requests for input about the proposal.

The late starts will allow educators to come together to:

· Better analyze student work and achievement data
· Plan instruction based on best practices
· Learn new instructional and assessment strategies
· Learn new curriculum content
· Develop skills in collaborating
· Celebrate increased student learning