The calendar is one of the first instances of RRISD using its newfound flexibility through Texas' DOI law, which allows school districts that develop local innovation plans to exempt themselves from sections of the state education code. RRISD is one of 64 DOI districts statewide.
Earlier start date
The proposed academic calendar schedules the first day of RRISD's 2017-18 school year on Tuesday, Aug. 22.
With the change, RRISD uses an exemption the district identified through its DOI plan to get out of Texas' uniform start date for schools, which mandates classes cannot begin earlier than the fourth Monday in August, according to the Texas Education Code.
RRISD's proposed calendar sets the last day of the school year on Friday, May 25, meaning the changes allow the district to finish its 2017-18 school year before the Memorial Day holiday, according to Corey Ryan, RRISD's executive director of communications and community relations.
Winter break changes
According to the proposed calendar, RRISD's winter break would be from Dec. 21-Jan. 2. The break would be bookended by staff development days on Dec. 20 and Jan. 3. Second-semester classes would begin on Thursday, Jan. 4, 2018.
A full-week break would be provided during Thanksgiving between Nov. 20-24.
Longer school days
RRISD wants to add five minutes to the school day at its elementary, middle and high schools.
Ryan said the extra minutes will allow for better flexibility in planning any inclement weather delays or cancellations during the year.
The proposed school day times include:
- Elementary schools: 7:40 a.m.-2:55 p.m.
- Middle schools: 8:20 a.m.-3:35 p.m.
- High schools: 9:05 a.m.-4:20 p.m.
Professional development
The proposed calendar includes professional development days for RRISD educators on the following days: the Monday prior to the Aug. 22 start of the school year, Columbus Day (Oct. 9-10), the final day prior to winter break (Dec. 20), the day before students return to class after winter break (Jan. 3), Presidents Day (Feb. 19-20) and the day after Memorial Day (May 29).
The district's teacher contract days remain the same as in previous school years.
Public review open
RRISD trustees were given a presentation on the proposed calendar during their regular meeting Thursday.
The district is seeking feedback on the new calendar through its website until Feb. 6.
Trustees are expected to vote on the calendar's approval during their next regular meeting Feb. 16.
