Establish four day school weeks for all public high schools in the state of Minnesota.

 

The purpose of this bill is to improve students' mental health and decrease their burn out, reduce school operating

expenses, increase teacher retention, and allow more flexibility in education while maintaining academic standards.

 

Studies on four day school weeks conducted in Lindenwood University, the University of Iowa, and other universities

compared districts that switched to four day weeks, to districts that kept the regular schedule. They also looked at

data regarding teacher turnover rates, students attendance, as well as schools spending before and after the change.

Some studies included teacher surveys measuring stress levels, planning time, and overall satisfaction with their job.

The outcome did vary, but a common finding was that teachers report less burnout and have more time to prepare their

lessons, which can make schools engage to work in. Some districts saw better attendance and improved support. Also, four

day schedules often limit transportation and building cost, allowing schools to save money while maintaining required

school hours. Because Minnesota is faced with teacher shortages, rising stress levels, and high operating costs,

enforcing a statewide four day school week offers a research supported way to support both students and teachers.

 

“Four day school week” shall be defined as a schedule in which students attend school on four days per week (such as

Monday-Thursday or Tuesday-Friday) while meeting the instructional hours required by the Minnesota Department of

Education.

“Public School” shall be defined as any Minnesota high school funded by the state.

“Teacher Retention” shall be defined as the ability of a school or district to keep teachers employed from year to year

without high turnover.

 

This bill will not require additional state funding. School districts will operate the four day week using their

existing budgets. Reducing costs in transportation, utilities, meal services, and substitute teachers will balance any

scheduling adjustments or training needed for these implementations.

 

School districts/high schools that fail to enforce a four day week schedule without receiving an approved exemption from

the Minnesota Department of Education will face a reduction in state funding and may face administrative review.

 

August 12, 2027