Should Salem Implement Longer School Days?

A crowd is expected to attend tonight's Salem Public Schools Turnaround Update at Collins Middle School.

The meeting, scheduled to run from 6 to 8 p.m., is expected to feature addresses from Mayor Kimberley Driscoll and Superintendent of Schools Stephen Russell.

The following was drawn from a press release issued by Patricia Zaido:

Educational research strongly supports the connection between additional time in school and the improved performance of student achievement. Chris Gabrieli, one of the nation’s leading thinkers in education, has been at the forefront of the movement to rethink the school calendar.

Jennifer Davis has an extensive academic background and has held positions on federal, state and local levels focused on improving educational opportunities for children across the U.S. Both Chris and Jennifer advise state and district leaders on models for expanding school time in order to significantly improve student achievement and prepare students for success in college and the workforce.

They will be at the Collins Middle School to share their successes and expertise with the Salem community.

In addition, Mayor Driscoll and Superintendent Russell will provide an update on the second year of the “Turnaround” – a focus on teaching and learning, use of data, a new volunteer initiative, greater cultural expectations, and more.

Who should attend this meeting?

Teachers, parents, grandparents, potential volunteers and/or concerned citizens. We all have a stake in the success of our public schools and the future of our children. Take advantage of this opportunity to learn and help in this major effort to improve the Salem Public Schools.

Questions?

Please contact Patricia Zaido, Executive Director of The Salem Partnership at pzaido@salempartnership.org or at 978.741.8100.

---

What do you think about the prospect of longer school days?

Let us know in the comments section below.