As we continue to manage winter weather, a common and important question is: What happens if we are out of school for too many days?
The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce requires school districts to meet a minimum number of instructional hours each school year. While this requirement was once based on days, it has shifted to hours. Within our student information system, each grade level has a specific number of instructional hours we are in session that is reported to the State of Ohio. At this time, we are well above the minimum required instructional hours and do not anticipate the need for make-up time.
If the district were to approach the minimum required instructional hours, we would need to add instructional time back to the school calendar. This could be accomplished in several ways, including adding time to the school day, extending the school year, or adjusting scheduled breaks such as spring break. Families would be notified well in advance should this become necessary.
Our goal is to always be in session. While we prioritize instructional time, the safety of our students, staff, and families must always come first. There is no single formula that dictates whether school is in session; decisions are made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account weather conditions, safety, and timing.
We appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding as we navigate these decisions.
Thank you,
Mike Laub
Superintendent