Creating an academic calendar for a school district is a complex task that requires careful consideration of various factors. The Seaford School District embraces transparency in its calendar creation process, involving a dedicated committee of stakeholders selected by the Seaford Education Association and District Administration This article sheds light on the intricate steps taken to craft a well-balanced calendar that caters to the needs of teachers, paraprofessionals, students, and the community.
Key Considerations:
- Days for Teachers and Paraprofessionals:
- The committee pays close attention to contractual obligations, recognizing that teachers are required to work 188 days and paraprofessionals 185 days. This ensures fair and supportive working conditions for all staff members.
- Hour-Based Attendance Requirement:
- Complying with state regulations, the committee factors in the hour-based attendance requirement for students. This ensures that the academic calendar aligns with state guidelines, providing students with the required instructional time.
- State and Federal Holidays, Elections, and Statewide PD Day:
- The committee meticulously incorporates state and federal holidays, election days, and the statewide professional development (PD) day into the calendar. This attention to detail reflects the district's commitment to observing these important events and ensuring a well-rounded academic experience.
- Collaboration and Professional Development Days:
- Recognizing the importance of collaboration and professional development, the committee strategically schedules days for staff to collaborate, analyze data, and enhance their knowledge on relevant education topics. This supports the continuous growth of educators within the district.
In February, the committee engages in thorough discussions and brainstorming to create a draft of the academic calendar. This draft is then presented to the Seaford School District Board in March for further discussion and approval. The board plays a pivotal role in refining the proposed calendar to meet the district's vision.
Following board approval in March, the final copy of the calendar is prepared for submission to the state by the end of April. This timeline ensures compliance with state regulations and allows for any necessary adjustments based on feedback from the board and the community.
We are asking anyone with suggestions to please reach out to a member of the committee, send us a message on Facebook, or email Mr. Cameron directly. Please keep in mind it is an election year, Christmas and New Years fall mid-week, and all of that additional time off will mean more days at school in June. All reasonable requests and suggestions will be taken into consideration as the calendar committee convenes on February 1st. We look forward to a calendar that fosters a positive and enriching learning environment for all.
2024 Calendar Committee:
Mr. Jason Cameron - Assistant Superintendent & Director of Human Resources
Dr. Krissy Jennette - Director of Instruction
Mrs. Sarah Smith - District Coordinator of Special Programs
Dr. Shay Crowson - Associate Principal at Seaford High School
Mrs. Danielle Schofer - Associate Principal at Central Elementary
Ms. Chandler Sickmund - Math Teacher at Seaford Middle School
Ms. Talisa Moore - Music Teacher at West Seaford Elementary
Mrs. Susan Massey - SCP Paraprofessional at Seaford High School
Mr. Jared Pinkerton - Autism Paraprofessional at Frederick Douglass Elementary
Mrs. Hannah Ybarra - parent