Many kids are back in school after a couple of months of summer vacation. But kids at Red River Elementary School in Louisiana had a shorter break. Their district switched to a balanced calendar last year. Red River students have the same number of school days they always did. But their summer break is shorter and they get several two-week breaks throughout the year.
More than 3,500 schools in the U.S. follow similar schedules. Red River made the switch, in part, to make up for time lost during the Covid-19 pandemic. School officials also say that frequent breaks help students remember more of what they learn.
“Kids come back after that two-week window with renewed energy,” says Mike Beck, Red River's principal.
But other people argue that having a longer break gives kids a better chance to rest and recharge. That includes having more time to unwind by going to camp or playing outside while the weather’s warm.