Manson School District all set to begin inaugural 4-day school week

MANSON — When students in the Manson School District return to classrooms on Aug. 27, they’ll do so under a brand-new calendar: the district’s first year on a four-day school week.

The Manson School Board voted earlier this year to adopt the schedule using the state’s Economy and Efficiency Waiver, which allows small districts to trade the traditional five-day model for four-day weeks with longer school days. District leaders say the change is designed to improve student outcomes, strengthen teacher support, and stretch limited dollars at a time of declining enrollment.

Students will attend class Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. The extended days add up to 1,087.5 instructional hours, roughly 32 more than the old schedule provided. Half-days and late-starts are eliminated, offering families a more predictable routine.

Fridays will become non-class days, but teachers will still work, using that time for professional development, collaboration, and planning.

District officials point to several reasons the shift makes sense for Manson:

• Academic focus: Teachers gain more training and collaboration time to support student achievement goals.

• Staff stability: The schedule is expected to help recruit and retain teachers.

• Attendance support: Families can schedule medical appointments and trips on Fridays, reducing in-week absences.

• Cost savings: The district anticipates between $125,000 and $375,000 in annual savings on substitutes, utilities, and transportation.

To address childcare needs, the Chelan Community Center Boys and Girls Club will offer Friday programming for about $25 per day per student, with transportation and meals included. State childcare assistance may be available for qualifying families. Limited Friday bus routes will run to the Center, and meals will be provided to students in need on Thursdays.

Fridays will also open doors for new opportunities: tutoring, library programs, college visits, youth sports, and expanded partnerships with nonprofits like Communities in Schools and the THRIVE Teen Center. Athletics schedules are being adjusted to move long trips to the off-day when possible, helping students stay in class during the week.

Manson joins a small but growing group of Washington districts adopting a four-day model. This year, about 7% of schools statewide are expected to use the schedule, reflecting a national trend that has gained momentum in rural districts across the country.

District officials emphasized that they will continue to monitor outcomes closely and keep the community informed as the year unfolds, and that they’re ready to see people through a big change like this.

Already, the district has planned a Back to School BBQ and Open House at Manson Elementary on August 26, the day before school begins. It will run from 5–7 p.m. at 950 Totem Pole Road in Manson.

“As we begin a new school year at Manson School District, there's a real sense of energy and purpose in the air,” said Tabatha Mires, the district superintendent. “Our staff is deeply committed to helping every student grow — academically and personally — and we’re excited to launch new efforts that support that mission.”

Mires was excited about what the schools are offering beginning in 2025. “From our financial literacy and ‘Leader in Me’ programs to our investment in professional learning and strong community and family partnerships, we’re building a school experience that prepares students for life after graduation. With the upcoming shift to a four-day student week, we’re embracing innovation while staying focused on what matters most: helping each student discover and develop their unique greatness.”

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media