Board approves 2025–26 calendar; students and staff begin 8-week e-hall-pass pilot to boost attendance

The Wheeling CCSD 21 board discussed and approved the district’s school calendar on Jan. 15 after Director Angelica asked for clarification about a change moving half days from Fridays to midweek. Angelica said she had asked Superintendent Dr. Connelly and been told the change was proposed “because the half days have really low attendance” and the move is intended as a year-long test to see if midweek scheduling improves participation.

Board members and students raised concerns about family convenience and the student experience of a midweek half day; one student said a Wednesday half day “will feel, like, funky” because of adjoining full days. Dr. Connelly explained state rules do not allow converting two half days into one full professional development day and noted half days are important for staff planning. The board held a roll-call vote and approved the calendar (motion carried).

Separately, student representatives presented results from a district survey on what motivates students to come to school. Highlights included: Cooper — time with friends and hands-on activities (about 42.2%); London — fun with friends (59.3% of 482 respondents) and getting good grades (57.5%).

Administration also announced an 8-week pilot of an electronic hall-pass system designed to protect instructional time and better track student movement. Students asked about practical issues (bathroom capacity, limits on simultaneous users) and administrators said each school will establish specific procedures during the pilot.

Votes at a glance: the board approved the consent agenda (excluding item m), then later approved the school calendar by roll-call vote; both motions carried. The board later moved into closed session and voted to convene.