Is there an optimal date for launching the new school year?
We know from the outcry over Los Angeles Unified’s proposed scheme to move up Opening Day two weeks, to Aug.15, there is an optimal date not to start the new year.
Parent protests have erupted on the grounds of torrid August weather and interference with vacation plans.
What happened to the tradition of the last century, starting the day after Labor Day? That plan and the covered wagon repose in a common museum.
The advantages appear to be less clear:
An earlier start and earlier finish (June 1) would, according to the Daily News, better prepare students for their post-high school education because the schedule would parallel those of colleges.
What about Culver City?
For Interim Supt. Patty Jaffe, the question provoked a U-turn into history.
“Many years ago when I was principal of the Middle School, this subject came up with the Calendar Committee,” she said.
“Mainly because of the high school, they wanted the AP students to start earlier. All finals would end before the Winter Break, and when they came back, they would have more time for AP.
“When we have surveyed parents in our community, they have said frequently they want to start after Labor Day.
“The main reason, I speculate, is vacation.
“We even got comments when we started at the end of August — before Labor Day.
“Our starting dates often change, and that is why I have to look up when we started this year.
“The students came back on Aug. 30.
“For us, it is work,” Ms. Jaffe said.
(To be concluded Tuesday)
