Board seeks more feedback after debate over two‑year academic calendars and timing of breaks

District staff presented proposed academic calendars for 2027–28 and 2028–29, each with 180 student days and 190 teacher contract days, beginning in August and ending in May. Staff said calendars were reviewed by advisory committees and recommended board approval.

Board members raised concerns about starting school in early August, the placement of a fall week‑long break, the spacing of spring break, and coordination with the Cherry Blossom Festival. One member said spring break placement made students wait 12–13 weeks for a full week break and suggested moving the week to coincide with Cherry Blossom events. Staff responded that advisory feedback, including teacher and principal advisory councils, had informed the proposals and that graduation dates are set by student affairs and will be provided separately.

After discussion, a motion to bring the calendars back for more feedback from advisory councils carried in committee and board members requested explicit parent advisory input before final approval. Staff agreed to take the feedback to teacher and principal advisories and to return with revised recommendations if warranted.