School committee approves 2026–27 calendar changes including earlier kindergarten start and slight elementary time shift

The School Committee voted unanimously Dec. 8 to approve the district’s proposed 2026–27 calendars, which include three notable changes: kindergarten students would begin school on the district’s first day (rather than starting a few days later); elementary start times would shift five minutes later to provide transportation buffers; and teacher work begins Sept. 1 so students attend school before Labor Day.

Administration said the kindergarten change is feasible because of a well-developed open house process and that the five‑minute elementary shift provides a buffer to accommodate regular bus delays during high‑traffic periods. Committee members questioned the plan’s timing around state primary election days and confirmed there would be no students on the primary‑election teacher orientation day.

After discussion, a motion to approve the calendars was moved, seconded and approved unanimously. Staff said the updated calendar will be posted on the district website and that a communication plan would notify families, with a May reminder to reduce confusion about the shift.