October 9, 2018 – 1:00 p.m. – 307 CLOB
Senator Steve Gooch, Chairman
This was the first meeting of the committee to look at making school year start dates more uniform. Currently local school systems set their own start date. This committee grew out of Senate Resolution 1068, which addresses tourism, travel and hospitality industries in this state and their impact on Georgia’s economy.
Several presenters were on hand, including GAE President Charlotte Booker and Cobb County Association of Educators President Connie Jackson.
Department of Education
Allen Meyer, Director of Policy
Matt Cordoza, Assistant Policy Director
Calendar Development Process
- Local school superintendents and boards have complete control of school start dates (20-2-168)
- Local control is the best interest of all. For example, Richmond County likes for their spring break to occur during the Masters Golf Tournament
- Some school systems select calendars based on the one that gets the most votes
- No guidance as to what local boards should do regarding setting school calendars
Data
- Most schools start 1st 2 weeks of August
- Some systems build their calendars around testing dates
- Most schools close May 20 through May 27
Other presenters included representatives from PAGE and the PTA. All speakers supported local control over school calendars.
The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, November 14, 1:00 p.m., 450 State Capitol.