U‑46 previews two‑year calendars that shift start dates, add full Thanksgiving week off and adjust semester timing

Mark Moore, assistant superintendent of human resources, presented two proposed school calendars covering 2027–28 and 2028–29. The district is moving to a practice of presenting calendars two years in advance so families and staff have earlier notice.

Key changes include starting the school year the week before Labor Day in 2027 (teachers the Monday, students the following Thursday), and beginning a full week off for Thanksgiving in November 2027 to align with neighboring districts. Moore said winter break would continue and the district would return the first Monday after New Year’s Day (earliest possible return Jan. 3). The calendars include institute days tied to election days in even years and a late‑April/early‑May flex institute day that can be used to cover a snow day if needed.

Board members asked whether staff and ETA leadership had been consulted; Moore said ETA leadership provided feedback that had been incorporated. Trustees also asked about impacts on semester timing for high schools and the relative length of upcoming summers; staff noted 2027 will be shorter than some prior summers but similar to historical patterns and that the district will monitor impacts.

Administration indicated the calendars would be posted online and that additional questions could be submitted to staff for clarification before formal adoption.