We need more input on plan to change school dates

To the editor:

In regard to the article about moving up by three weeks the school starting date in 2012, I wonder if any of the adults affected by this were asked their opinion. It sounds like students complained and the Clark County School Board members popped their heads up and came to action.

So let me get this straight.

Students complained that they don't want to work over winter break in December, only to come back for about three weeks to study and take their midterm exams in mid-January. One question is: Who is giving projects and assignments over a holiday break?

Certainly not elementary or middle schools. That cuts out most of the students in Clark County.

What teacher thinks it's a good idea to give seriously antsy kids a semester exam the Friday before they leave on holiday? Bad idea.

Many families leave days earlier, and students are absent because they're out of town. Ask any teacher and she will tell you that it's a bad idea making an assignment due or having a test on that last day before holiday break. Kids aren't focused and they're ready to get out. Semester exams would be terrible.

And wouldn't it cost the money-strapped school district more than $1 million to operate during the month of August due to increased cooling costs?

Were any teachers, administrators or custodians asked if this new timetable works? No, just noisy students who complained. Maybe I'll start paying my dues to them.

The school dates, which have been in place for years, should not be changed on a simple suggestion without investigation.

Amy Carr

Henderson