Just Wondering Wednesday: Why do the schools in town have a different Spring Break week than the university?
Published by Kristy February 28th, 2007 in Site.
A reader whose spouse works at UAM and children attend Monticello Elementary School asked this question. Many around here probably are in the same predicament, not able to make vacation plans because of conflicting Spring Break weeks. Both Monticello Schools and Drew Central Schools Spring Breaks are scheduled for March 26-30, 2007. UAM Spring Break is March 12-16, 2007.
Monticello Schools Superintendent Bobby Harper reports this is because their schedule is laid out by the Southeast Arkansas Educational Cooperative. Although the school does have some flexibility, their programming, especially because of the 100-150 high school students who are part of the early college credit program, is dictated by the co-op. Plus, colleges normally set their schedules 3-5 years in advance, which is hard to change.
It’s a quandry and Mr. Harper says, “I would like to see it, too [the same schedule for breaks]. It’s just not possible right now.”
Possibly Related:
I work at the Southeast Education Service Cooperative and yes we were part of the planning for the Spring Break along with the State Department. They main reason for the difference is the State Department said spring breaks cannot be taken during certain times in March due to standardized testing. The only available week was the last of March or go into April. The university sets their spring break about 5 years in advance and the school system does not. The calendar for next year has both spring breaks matching.
Thanks, Tracie. That is great. I appreciate you further clarifying things for everyone.
:-) Now THAT is what I’m talking about!!!! Answers!!! Thanks Tracie!
Um, the 2008 schedules are in fact NOT the same!!