2012-13 proposed calendar Letter to Families

February 16, 2012

Dear Families:

I am writing to provide additional information about the proposed 2012-13 school year calendar. On February 14, the Minneapolis Board of Education received a recommendation on my behalf regarding the 2012-13 school year calendar. The recommendation includes a proposal to have two different school start dates for two different groups of schools. For Anishinabe, Bancroft, Bethune, Broadway, Cityview, Edison, Folwell (program moved from current Ramsey site), Green Central, Hall, Hmong International Academy, Lucy Laney, North, Olson, Pratt, Sheridan and Wellstone, we are recommending that students in grades 1-12 would begin the school year on Monday, August 20, adding nine days to the calendar. The rest of the school district would begin the school year on Monday, August 27, adding four days to the calendar.

Minneapolis has one of the largest achievement gaps in the nation and we all have a stake in helping every student succeed. This proposal represents a proven strategy to increase the amount of instructional time we are providing students, particularly at sites where academic performance is lower than at most other schools. When combined with other key strategies developed at school, research shows that quality additional time in the classroom can help students improve their academic performance, which is why it has been one of MPS’ priorities in negotiating the teacher contract. Final approval of this calendar is pending the result of teacher contract negotiations.

We know that changes to the school calendar have an impact on you and your family. The development of the calendar was informed by parent and staff surveys as well as a representative committee of administrators, teachers and parents who shared their suggestions and recommendations. While we know extending the instructional year will benefit students who are struggling, we are also confident that it will have a positive impact on students who are excelling. It is my firm belief that developing two calendars is a necessary step in closing the achievement gap. We need your support and partnership to put this strategy in place.

The Board of Education is scheduled to vote on the calendar recommendation at its meeting on February 28, which will take place at 6 p.m. in the Assembly Room at 807 NE Broadway in Minneapolis. To learn more about the recommended calendar or provide feedback, please contact Minneapolis Public Schools at 612.668.0000 or answers@mpls.k12.mn.us. Thank you for your continued engagement in your child’s education.

Sincerely,

Bernadeia H. Johnson, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools