School will start close to a week later next year in Fayette County, a change school board members say constituents preferred.
Monday night’s decision means the 2017 school year will begin August 16th rather than the 9th as previously suggested. Proponents argue the change gives students a little more summer vacation while also meeting the mandated number of instructional days before Memorial Day.
Pupil personnel director Steve Hill says the decision comes amid a growing movement in Frankfort to push start dates back.
"I know they want to make a uniform start date across the state, but I know folks at the school district level really want to keep this a local decision because we're all so different," he adds.
Hill says variations in every school calendar it uncertain whether the trend will continue in future years, but planners will attempt to start as late as possible.
Board members also voted this week on an evaluation for Superintendent Manny Caulk, giving him high marks in outreach, leadership development, and his focus on student needs and organizational effectiveness.
Caulk says he’s “deeply humbled” by the review. He’ll be receiving a pay raise in line with the average increases earn by other eligible staff.
