Districts Await State Decision on Students’ Makeup Days
The harsh winter weather has posed significant challenges for school districts in Richland County, Ohio. With heavy snowfall leading to multiple school closures, districts are now working on plans to compensate for lost instructional hours. This dilemma comes as students await state decisions on makeup days.
State Requirements for Instructional Hours
The Ohio State Board of Education mandates specific instructional hours for various education levels. The requirements are outlined as follows:
- Preschool: 455 hours
- Grades K-6: 910 hours
- Grades 7-12: 1,001 hours
Lacey Snoke, chief communications officer for the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, emphasized that schools are expected to meet these requirements even when unexpected closures occur. Many districts preemptively add additional hours to their calendars to accommodate potential disruptions.
Impact on Richland County Schools
Winter weather has led to various responses from local school districts. Below are snapshots of how Mansfield City Schools, Madison Local Schools, and Ontario Local Schools are managing the situation:
Mansfield City Schools
As of January 31, Mansfield City Schools had utilized 11 calamity days due to severe weather. Superintendent Stan Jefferson expressed hope that the approaching months would bring relief from harsh conditions.
The safety of students is paramount, particularly as many walk to their bus stops amid snow-covered streets. While the district has not finalized plans for makeup days, options include using staff development days for instruction and extending the school year.
Madison Local Schools
Madison Local Schools faced severe winter conditions starting in December, resulting in three closures and two delays before winter break. Superintendent Rob Peterson forecasts continued cold temperatures and potential winter weather through March.
District employees are currently working extra hours to mitigate the impact of class time lost. Peterson noted that the district will stick to state-mandated hours unless changes are made at the legislative level.
Ontario Local Schools
Ontario Local Schools adapted to changing circumstances by shifting to remote learning at the end of January. According to Superintendent Keith Strickler, educators are providing modified lessons to ensure students continue learning without overwhelming them during this challenging time.
Parents have expressed appreciation for this balanced approach, avoiding excessive busy work while keeping students engaged.
Conclusion
The current winter has created a unique situation for Richland County’s school districts as they navigate the balance between safety and fulfilling state educational requirements. All eyes remain on the state for decisions concerning makeup days and any adjustments to hour requirements. Until then, these schools will continue to adapt to the ongoing challenges presented by the season.
