Submitted by Mr. Ethan Sickels, Rock Port R-I-II Superintendent

I hope this article finds you well and enjoying some time this holiday season with family and friends! It was certainly a busy first semester here at school and I am hopeful this break allows our students and staff to come back rested and recharged for another fantastic semester.

This article regards a survey we sent out in late November inquiring about thoughts on a four-day school week. We had 122 responses to our parent survey, and surveyed our staff, grades 7-11 students, and coaches as well. From the data gathered, we have decided to proceed with considering a four-day week for next school year. In the parent survey, 58.6% strongly favored or favored the four-day week, with another 23.1% undecided. Only 14.8% were strongly opposed or opposed. The survey provided additional data necessary to help us make determinations on how to possibly structure the school day and calendar.

I would like to invite you to a meeting on Wednesday, January 5, at 6:30 p.m. in our south gym to hear a short presentation with the survey results, share a draft calendar, and then discuss feedback from our parents and community. Input that evening will then help us determine our next steps in this process.

I am hopeful 2022 is a great one for you and your family. Please stay safe, and as always, I leave you with three important words . . . GO BIG BLUE!