The Calico Rock School District has officially approved a transition to a 4 day school week beginning in the 2026–2027 academic year, joining a growing number of Arkansas districts making similar changes. Following a recent school board vote,
students will attend classes Tuesday through Friday, with Mondays designated as a regular day off. To meet required instructional time, school days will be extended from 7:40 a.m. until 4:15 p.m.
District leaders say the decision came after gathering feedback from teachers, parents, and students across the community.
Superintendent Rick Green emphasized the move is not driven by cost savings, but by improving quality of life for both students and staff.
“It gives families that 3 day weekend,” Green said in comments to Baxter County media. “It allows parents to schedule appointments like doctor visits and other needs on Mondays.”
School officials also noted the schedule may benefit students who work on weekends, giving them additional flexibility to balance school and employment.
The district expects the change could lead to improved attendance and overall classroom performance, citing positive outcomes reported by other schools already using the 4 day model.
The updated schedule will take effect at the start of the 2026–2027 school year.
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