The debate surrounding the implementation of a 4-day school week has been around for so long. This new system should be implemented, as the pros carry a heavier and more significant impact than the cons, which include improved academic performance, better mental health, and more opportunities for students.
Implementing a 4-day school week instead of the current, standard 5-day week would lead to improved performance in both students and teachers. If there were fewer school days in a week, there would be a boost in student attendance as they have a higher incentive to show up. Increased attendance would lead to students having a better overall understanding and the lengthened days would allow students to have more one-on-one time with their teachers. This means students will be able to ask more questions, participate in more learning opportunities, and do more activities related to course content. As for teachers, they’re able to spend more time at home working on improving the quality of their teaching materials.
A longer weekend would allow students and teachers to recover from the demands of school and this could help in reducing their anxiety and stress. This opens both teachers and students to have a healthier work-life balance, which is a crucial factor in maintaining good mental health. Being able to spend more time at home with their families, especially for teachers who have younger kids, is very important. Additionally, students’ mental health would also benefit from a 4-day school week. With more time to relax, catch up on pending work, review lessons, and do whatever they want, students get to spend this extra time working on themselves.
Grade 11 student Bhavini Sacha mentioned that “if we have four days of school, we will not only be able to have a better mentality and more mental peace, but we’d also be able to study better.”
A shorter school week could also lead to more opportunities, which students would have more time to pursue, including extracurricular activities, spending time with family, or simply relaxing. The older students will even get additional time to grow their work experience and volunteer. Additionally, teachers and parents can schedule vital check-ups and visits with doctors without disrupting their busy school schedules.
Overall, a 4-day school week would be beneficial for everyone affected by this decision. The extra time that teachers and students gain will lead to a lot of positive changes in their lives. The pros of improved performance, better mental health, and more opportunities outweigh the cons that may be found in this system.
Photo Credits: Bal D.
THE NORTH STAR 